Fiji’s efforts to send both men’s and women’s rugby teams to the 2026 National Rugby League (NRL) have received significant support. Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka recently reached out to Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, expressing backing for Fiji’s expansion bid and the necessity for a license to join the NRL competitions.
In a Wednesday interview, Rabuka confirmed his commitment to advocating for Fiji’s entry into the league. He emphasized the positive impact that the sport would have on the region, including benefits to the Fiji-Australia relationship, local communities, and the tourism and corporate sectors in Fiji.
Rabuka’s push comes on the heels of Cabinet support for the bid, approved in March. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Biman Prasad mentioned that the National Budget includes tax incentives for organizations wishing to sponsor the Fijian teams.
Minister for Youth and Sports Jese Saukuru assured that Fiji possesses the talent necessary to compete in the NRL alongside Australian and New Zealand clubs. He noted that many local players are already involved in the NRL, presenting a viable pathway for additional players from Fiji.
Plans are also underway to construct another international stadium, with ongoing discussions about potential partnerships through the Fiji Sports Council.
Should Fiji secure an NRL license, it would host 17 home games, along with three pre-season matches and possibly four additional playoff games. Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism Viliame Gavoka expressed optimism about the bid’s success, highlighting the significant implications for sports tourism and the Australian market, which is crucial for Fiji’s tourism sector.
This weekend, two Fijian heritage players will compete in the NRL Grand Final in Sydney: Sunia Turuva with the defending champions, the Penrith Panthers, and Tui Kamikamica with Melbourne Storm. Historically, many Fijian players have participated in NRL Grand Finals, including notable names such as Noa Nadruku and Petero Civoniceva.