History is set to unfold on January 24, 2025, as Rugby Football Club Los Angeles (RFCLA) faces off against the Fijian Drua at Churchill Park in Lautoka, Fiji. This momentous match will be the first-ever meeting between a Major League Rugby (MLR) team and a Super Rugby Pacific squad, showcasing the expanding global reach of rugby and the sport’s increasing popularity in both the United States and Fiji.

To make this landmark event accessible to fans, the Fijian Drua has set ticket prices at a modest $5 for ground access and $10 for seating in stands. This initiative reflects the commitment of both leagues to engage a broader audience and promote rugby at a grassroots level.

RFCLA is bolstering its international presence through key player signings, including Olympic gold medalist Semi Kunatani and former Moana Pasifika captain Christian Leali’ifano. The team will also be led by experienced coaches Stephen Hoiles and David Dennis, adding to the excitement surrounding this high-stakes encounter.

The Fijian Drua has captured hearts worldwide with their dynamic playing style since joining the Super Rugby Pacific, successfully reaching the playoffs in both of the last two seasons. Led by co-captains Tevita Ikanivere and Frank Lomani, the Drua boasts a talented roster of “Flying Fijians.”

Baden Stephenson, the General Manager of Rugby for the Fijian Drua, expressed excitement about hosting RFCLA, stating that this matchup will provide a unique opportunity for players and fans to engage in new challenges while fostering international relationships. RFCLA’s CEO, Pete Sickle, echoed this sentiment, expressing gratitude towards the Fijian Drua for facilitating the occasion and highlighting the growth achieved in RFCLA’s inaugural year.

Jack Mesley, CEO of Super Rugby Pacific, noted the strategic significance of this fixture, particularly in light of the upcoming 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles and the 2031 Rugby World Cup. He emphasized the match’s potential to elevate rugby’s profile in America through collaboration between the leagues.

Fans can purchase tickets online and at various local outlets. Additionally, after the match, spectators will have the unique opportunity to meet players on the field, enhancing the overall match-day experience and creating lasting memories.

This historic clash not only promises an exhilarating day of rugby but also symbolizes a hopeful future for international collaboration. It creates opportunities for cultural exchange and strengthens connections between the United States and Fiji, uniting fans and players while showcasing the potential for growth in the sport on a global scale.