The Fiji Rakavi Football Union Limited (FRFUL), previously known as the Fiji Rugby Union (FRU), has formed a partnership with global sporting apparel brand Umbro ANZ. This agreement, effective from January 1, 2024, was announced on Wednesday and aims to enhance the global presence of Fiji Rugby.

As part of this partnership, all national teams affiliated with the FRFUL, including the Fiji men’s and women’s 7s and 15s teams as well as the Fiji XVs and various age-group teams, will wear custom-made technical playing and training apparel designed by Umbro. CEO Rovereto Nayacalevu expressed enthusiasm about this collaboration, stating that it aligns with their mission to showcase Fiji Rugby’s strength both on and off the field. Nayacalevu noted that the teams would proudly represent Fiji in their new Umbro uniforms at the upcoming HSBC Sevens in Perth.

Umbro’s global managing director, Anthony Little, expressed excitement about associating the brand with Fiji’s remarkable international teams, highlighting the unique spirit and flair that Fijian rugby brings to the global stage.

This announcement comes as anticipation builds for the Perth 7s, where both men’s and women’s teams will debut the new apparel, showcasing the pride and cultural heritage of Fiji.

In the context of strengthening grassroots initiatives, this partnership reflects a broader trend of enhancing the sporting landscape in Fiji, similar to recent agreements like the collaboration between the Fiji Sports Council and the FRU aimed at fostering grassroots rugby through the FSC U20 7s competition. Both initiatives highlight a collective effort to promote sports development, elevate the profile of Fiji’s national teams, and encourage youth participation in rugby.

The collaboration with Umbro not only signifies an exciting new chapter for Fiji Rugby but also underscores the commitment to elevate Fiji’s stature in the international rugby community, showcasing the rich tradition and future ambitions of the sport in the island nation.