The Chief Executive of the Fiji Football Association, Mohammed Yusuf, has announced that 21 of the 180 players tested for drugs during the 2024 FMF Inter District Championship (IDC) at Churchill Park in Lautoka returned positive results. This figure represents a notable rise from the seven positive cases recorded last year.
Yusuf confirmed that the players who tested positive have been suspended immediately and will appear before the Fiji FA Disciplinary Committee. The penalties for first-time offenders include a three-month suspension and a fine of $200, which must be paid by both the player and their district.
For second-time offenders, the consequence will be a three-year suspension and a $500 fine. Repeat offenders will also receive a three-year suspension along with the $500 fine, which must be paid by both the player and their district. The disciplinary committee will review the cases and may adjust the penalties accordingly.