Fiji is on the brink of entering the realm of professional football for the first time. The Fiji Football Association (FFA) is convening in Nadi on Sunday to finalize plans for a team to represent the nation in the upcoming OFC (Oceania Football Confederation) Pro League, set to begin in January 2026 and scheduled to run for four months.
According to Mohammed Yusuf, chief executive officer of Fiji FA, the Pro League will occur annually, with aspirations for Fiji to enter two teams. The league is expected to include eight or more professional teams, with participation from various Pacific island nations, including the Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea, New Caledonia, Tahiti, and New Zealand. Additionally, there have been indications of interest from Football Australia to put forth a team, alongside potential participation from Hawaii.
Yusuf emphasized the numerous benefits of the Pro League, such as increased visibility, market reach, improved competitive standards, and-enhanced economic and cultural connections. He noted that an Australian team would strengthen regional ties and inspire new partnership opportunities, contributing significantly to the growth of football throughout Oceania.
In preparation for this major shift, a meeting will convene in December with key companies in Fiji to discuss forming a consortium to manage the two teams being proposed. This consortium would oversee all operational aspects of the football clubs, including hiring certified coaches and a public relations team, while also fielding up to 30 players, with the option of including four foreign players in their squads.
The franchise is projected to last for four years, with initial broadcast revenues allocated to OFC and financial support from airline subsidies envisaged. The running costs for a club could reach around $1 million annually. Yusuf indicated that the operational model would mirror that of the Fijian Drua franchise, which competes in the Super Rugby Pacific league.
Moreover, the OFC believes that the Pro League initiative is a significant step forward for Oceania’s football, aiming to secure two berths for the region in the 2026 World Cup, which has expanded to include 48 teams. This marks a historic opportunity for the Oceania region to enhance its presence on the global football stage.
Overall, this development highlights a hopeful and transformative era for football in Fiji and the wider Oceania region, fostering growth, investment, and passion for the sport. The Pro League has the potential to bring a new level of excitement and engagement for fans and players alike, paving the way for a bright future in professional football.
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