Fiji’s captain for the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France, Waisea Nayacalevu, along with senior players, has announced their decision to address issues within Fiji rugby, emphasizing that their concern is not driven by financial motives. Nayacalevu, along with teammates Levani Botia and Semi Radradra, spoke during a recent social media podcast, where they addressed allegations of mismanagement by the Fiji Rugby Union regarding promised incentives following the Rugby World Cup.
“This is not about money; it’s about the future of the next generation of Fiji rugby players,” Nayacalevu stated. He highlighted that commitments concerning player payments made prior to the World Cup have not been honored and expressed frustration over the ongoing issue. “This has been a persistent problem for a long time,” he remarked. “It reflects poorly on us, and it’s crucial that we promote greater professionalism at the leadership level of Fiji Rugby.”
Botia echoed these sentiments, noting that, like many players, he has not received the promised bonus of $105,000, despite receiving a total salary of $30,000 in two parts before and after the World Cup. “I have no idea where it went,” Botia commented.
The senior players are now advocating for a thorough investigation into the current circumstances surrounding these financial discrepancies.