Fiji Football Association’s CEO Mohammed Yusuf has suggested that the 21 players who failed drug tests may be habitual users. This revelation came after the tests were conducted during the Flour Mills of Fiji (FMF) Inter-District competition held in Lautoka last week.
Concerns have been raised by both Fiji FA and stakeholders about a rising drug culture within the sport. When asked if the players had consumed drugs during the tournament, Yusuf indicated that some may have a history of drug use. He was also questioned about whether the players might have resorted to drugs as a way to enhance their performance amid the fatigue from competing over five consecutive days.
Yusuf clarified that players did not participate for the entirety of the competition, as there were breaks allowing for recovery, and teams typically had 20-22 registered players to interchange. “There’s a break on Friday or no game, so there is an area where they can recover,” he explained.
While Yusuf confirmed that the 21 players will be subject to a disciplinary committee for violating regulations, he also noted that the issues facing Fiji FA reflect the broader challenge the government faces in addressing increasing substance abuse in the country. He emphasized the association’s commitment to tackling the issue.
“We are trying our best to assist, and we see that no other sport is doing it,” Yusuf stated. He assured that the association would implement educational initiatives to inform players about the serious consequences of substance abuse to prevent future incidents.