Fiji is on the brink of entering professional football for the first time as the Fiji Football Association (FFA) prepares to finalize plans for a national team to compete in the upcoming OFC (Oceania Football Confederation) Pro League. Scheduled to begin in January 2026, this league will span four months and aims to establish a framework for professional football in the region.
During a meeting held in Nadi, Fiji FA’s Chief Executive Officer, Mohammed Yusuf, revealed that the plan is to have at least eight professional teams in the inaugural league, with Fiji looking to bid for two of those spots. The league will feature teams from several Pacific nations, including the Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea, New Caledonia, Tahiti, and New Zealand. Notably, there is also interest from Football Australia and a team from Hawaii wishing to participate in the league.
Yusuf highlighted the numerous benefits that such participation would bring, emphasizing increased visibility, economic growth, strong competitive standards, and enhanced cultural ties across Oceania. Home and away matches will be played in Fiji and other countries like Australia and New Zealand, providing more exposure for local players.
In preparation for this new venture, the FFA is planning to convene a meeting in December with major companies in Fiji to discuss the possibility of forming a consortium to own and manage the two teams they are interested in. These teams will operate independently, with their own board, coaches, and player rosters, which can include up to four foreign players.
Moreover, the model proposed for the Pro League is similar to the successful Fijian Drua franchise, which competes in the Super Rugby Pacific competition. The initiative is aligned with OFC’s broader goals of elevating football development in the region, especially with Oceania now granted its first guaranteed World Cup place for the 2026 tournament following an expansion that allows 48 nations to participate.
This development in Fijian football is a significant milestone that promises to not only enhance local talent but also grow the sport’s popularity in the Pacific. As Fiji transitions towards a more professional football structure, there is a sense of hope for a vibrant future that could see local athletes competing on larger stages.
In summary, the establishment of a professional football league in Fiji marks an exciting time for the country’s athletes and football enthusiasts, potentially leading to greater recognition and opportunities for Fijian players in the international arena.
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