The Chief Executive of the Fiji Football Association, Mohammed Yusuf, has announced that out of 180 players tested for drugs during the 2024 FMF Inter District Championship (IDC) held at Churchill Park in Lautoka, 21 players returned positive results. This figure represents a significant rise from the seven cases identified last year. Yusuf noted that players who tested positive have been immediately suspended and will appear before the Fiji FA Disciplinary Committee.
For first-time offenders, the penalties include a three-month suspension along with a $200 fine, which must be paid by both the player and their district. Those who are second-time offenders will face a three-year suspension and a $500 fine, while repeat offenders will also be subject to a three-year suspension and a $500 fine, with the same payment obligations. The disciplinary committee will assess the situation to decide if penalties should be modified.