Fiji has been chosen as the Pacific hub for the launch of the Cup Rugby development programme, a significant new initiative driven by the French Rugby Federation in collaboration with Oceania Rugby and the French overseas development agency (AFD). This grassroots-focused programme, set to commence in October, has proven successful in parts of Africa and is now being tailored for implementation in Fiji and neighboring island nations, including Tonga and Samoa.
The announcement took place during a visit by French Rugby Vice President Abdelatif Benazzi, who emphasized Fiji’s profound rugby culture, talent, and passion as key reasons for its selection as the programme’s base. “Fiji will be our second home with this programme,” he stated, underscoring the long-term objectives of the initiative.
The Cup Rugby programme aims to enhance the growth of rugby from the ground up by establishing academies, training stations, governance support, and competitions across multiple age groups, including women’s rugby. The initiative will begin with a diagnostic phase to assess local unions’ needs, focusing on developing coaching support, school competitions, referee training, and increasing women’s participation in the sport.
John Sanday, the chairman of the Fiji Rugby Union, welcomed the initiative, viewing it as a vital recognition of Fiji’s position in global rugby and an opportunity to foster the development of players, coaches, and administrators. He highlighted the potential for real growth stemming from this partnership, which is also backed by the French Embassy and AFD, aiming to secure funding for rugby development throughout the Pacific Islands and French overseas territories.
Benazzi expressed a personal connection to the region, stating, “Oceania Rugby is the heart of my career,” and noted the programme’s purpose of leveraging rugby as a means for unity, opportunity, and youth empowerment. Furthermore, he confirmed that the French national team will maintain an active presence in the region with a scheduled tour next year and ongoing collaborations leading up to the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.
The Cup Rugby initiative heralds a new chapter in the relationship between France and the Pacific, with the potential to elevate grassroots rugby and create meaningful opportunities for young athletes throughout Fiji and its neighboring islands. Such partnerships emphasize the role of sports in fostering international relationships and regional development, igniting hope for a vibrant rugby future in the Pacific.
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