Fijian referee Torika Delai has recently been appointed to officiate at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco in 2025. This achievement makes her the second Fijian woman to receive such an honor, following in the footsteps of Finau Vulivuli, who represented Fiji at the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in 2016.
Delai joins an esteemed panel consisting of 18 referees and 36 assistant referees from 36 FIFA associations, further emphasizing her value as a prominent official on the world stage while also being the sole representative from the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC). She will officiate alongside Assistant Referees Allys Clipsham from New Zealand and Natalia Lumukana from the Solomon Islands.
Rajesh Patel, the President of the Fiji Football Association, expressed immense pride in Delai’s accomplishment, noting her hard work and dedication. He highlighted that her inclusion on the World Cup stage not only showcases her talent but also signifies a positive trend in women’s football, fostering opportunities for the next generation of female referees in Fiji.
Earlier this year, Delai made headlines by officiating an international friendly match between the Australian national team, the Matildas, and Slovenia in Perth. This notable engagement showcased her growing reputation and the support she has garnered within the officiating community.
The recognition of officials like Delai stands as an inspiration for many aspiring referees, especially young women across the Pacific region, illustrating the significance of dedication and hard work in achieving such milestones. Moreover, this appointment serves to uplift the visibility of women’s roles in football and officiating, nurturing hope for continued growth and representation in sports overall.
Delai’s rising trajectory in the refereeing world promises a bright future, reflecting the ongoing commitment within the Fiji Football Association to enhance the involvement and acknowledgment of women in sports.
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