Fiji’s rugby captain for the 2023 Rugby World Cup, Waisea Nayacalevu, along with senior players Levani Botia and Semi Radradra, has voiced concerns regarding the management practices of the Fiji Rugby Union. During a recent social media podcast, the trio addressed allegations of unfulfilled incentives promised since the World Cup, emphasizing that their motivation is not financial gain but rather the future of rugby in Fiji.
Nayacalevu pointed out that agreements relating to player payments prior to the World Cup have not been honored, stating, “Enough is enough.” He highlighted that the issue has persisted for a long time and urged for a more professional approach to be adopted at the top of the Fiji Rugby hierarchy.
Botia echoed these sentiments, revealing that he, along with many players, has not received a promised bonus of $105,000, although they did receive their salary of $30,000 in two payments before and after the World Cup. “I have no idea where it went,” Botia remarked.
The senior players are now advocating for a thorough investigation into the current circumstances concerning player compensation.