Players participating in the upcoming OFC Professional League in Fiji will receive proper salaries through formal employment contracts, marking a significant shift in the country’s football landscape. Historically, football in Fiji had an amateur status, where the Fiji Football Association capped district-level player allowances at just $200 per week. This limited compensation structure forced many players to juggle their passion for football with day jobs, making them susceptible to financial hardships if payments were delayed or adjusted.
Anushil Kumar, the chief executive officer of Bula FC, expressed optimism about the league’s transformative potential. He emphasized that with these new contracts, players will have the opportunity to treat football as a full-time profession. “They will be reporting to work and they will be on salary with their FNPF contribution and those mandatory taxes will be deducted as well,” Kumar stated. He highlighted that players will have the option of either six-month or full-year contracts, reflecting the league’s commitment to professional standards.
The structure of the OFC Pro League creates a formal employment pathway for players, allowing them to focus on improving their skills and competitiveness. This professionalization is expected to not only enhance the quality of football in Fiji but also to elevate the overall standard of the sport across the broader Oceania region.
The sentiment around the Bula FC and the OFC Pro League has been echoed by other stakeholders in Fijian football. The league introduces a new benchmark for player professionalism that could inspire young athletes across the nation. As the league gears up for its inaugural season starting January 2026, it offers much-needed hope for aspiring footballers in Fiji. With an exciting competitive environment on the horizon, players and fans alike are eager for this new chapter in Fijian and Oceania football, which promises elevated standards and long-term growth in the sport.
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