Fiji’s captain for the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France, Waisea Nayacalevu, along with senior team members Levani Botia and Semi Radradra, has voiced concerns regarding the management of the Fiji Rugby Union, emphasizing that their motivations extend beyond financial issues.
During a recent discussion on a popular social media podcast, Nayacalevu addressed allegations of unfulfilled promises related to player incentives after the Rugby World Cup. He stated, “It is not about the money; rather, it is about the future of the next generation of Fiji rugby players.”
Nayacalevu expressed frustration over outstanding agreements regarding player payments that remain unaddressed, remarking, “This has been an ongoing issue from well before.” He called for increased professionalism within the leadership of Fiji Rugby, noting that the situation creates a negative perception of the sport.
Botia supported Nayacalevu’s position, revealing that he and many other players had not received the promised bonus of $105,000, although they did receive a total salary of $30,000 in two installments before and after the World Cup. “I have no idea where it went,” Botia commented.
The senior players are now urging a thorough investigation into the current circumstances surrounding these financial discrepancies.