Fiji Sports Council’s acting CEO, Ratu Gilbert Vakalalabure, has refrained from commenting on the deteriorating condition of the HFC Bank Stadium pitch in Suva. Media inquiries sent to him garnered no response, echoing similar silence from the Minister for Youth and Sports, Jese Saukuru, when pressed in Parliament on the matter. This comes in light of Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s recent outcry, expressing his disappointment over the pitch’s unsuitability for international matches.
During a historic home test match against Scotland, Rabuka highlighted that the HFC Bank Stadium presented serious issues, including soft patches and uneven surfaces, making it inappropriate for high-stakes competition. He stated, “It was a proud day for Fiji but one that was unfortunately let down by the poor condition of the pitch.” The Prime Minister’s concerns were compounded as preparations for the OFC Women’s Nations Cup playoffs commenced on the same pitch just hours after the rugby match.
A government source confirmed a report on the stadium’s condition is currently with the Prime Minister, revealing concerns such as a faulty water pump and the loss of a turf specialist from the Fiji Sports Council two years prior. Rabuka criticized overloaded scheduling that compromises the safety of athletes and the quality of events, insisting, “We must do better for our players, our fans, and our reputation on the world stage.”
Additionally, previous discussions have highlighted the Fiji Sports Council’s struggle to maintain facilities at international standards, further underscoring the urgent need for a review and improvement of the management practices surrounding sports infrastructure in Fiji. A commitment to enhancing sports venues not only benefits athletes but is also vital for elevating Fiji’s profile in global sports. It is hoped that concerted efforts toward better governance and infrastructure will ultimately lead to a more vibrant sporting culture in the nation.
By addressing these ongoing infrastructure challenges, Fiji can enhance its capabilities as a host for international sports events, instilling pride and fostering greater community engagement in athletics. This situation presents an opportunity for stakeholders to collaborate effectively, paving the way for long-term improvements that can elevate the nation’s sporting reputation.
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