The Fiji Football Association (Fiji FA) is set to convene shortly to develop a budget dedicated to drug awareness initiatives. Chief Executive Mohammed Yusuf expressed concern over the increasing number of footballers testing positive for drug use, highlighting the urgent need for action.
Yusuf noted that during the recent FMF Inter District Championship held in Lautoka, 21 players tested positive, a significant rise compared to only seven cases from the previous tournament. “This is now a national trend, and the increase in substance abuse reflected in testing supports the Government’s concerns,” he stated.
To address this issue, the Fiji FA plans to collaborate with key authorities, including the Ministry of Social Welfare and the Fiji Police Force. “The Board will need to approve our budget. With this funding, we will bring in a psychologist and experts to focus on players and others involved in the sport. The data is clear—over half of the individuals are using drugs,” Yusuf added.
He emphasized the organization’s commitment to social responsibility, stating, “We want to move beyond merely tracking and suspending players. We aim to utilize this data to educate the youth of Fiji about the dangers of drugs and their negative impact on families, villages, and the wider community.”
Additionally, players who tested positive for substance abuse during the IDC are facing immediate suspension and will present their cases before the Fiji FA Disciplinary Committee.
Penalties for first-time offenders include a three-month suspension and a $200 fine, which must be paid by both the player and their district. Second-time offenders will receive a three-year suspension along with a $500 fine, while repeat offenders are subject to the same penalties. The disciplinary committee has the authority to review and adjust these penalties as necessary.
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