History will be made on January 24, 2025, when Rugby Football Club Los Angeles (RFCLA) faces the Fijian Drua in a pioneering match at Churchill Park in Lautoka, Fiji. This encounter will mark the first-ever clash between a Major League Rugby (MLR) team and a Super Rugby Pacific squad, highlighting the expanding global reach of both leagues.

To enhance accessibility for fans, ticket prices for this highly anticipated event have been set at just $5 for grass embankment seating and $10 for stands. This effort underscores the commitment of both rugby leagues to promote the sport and engage a wider audience.

RFCLA is making significant strides in its international ambitions, emphasized by notable signings including Christian Leali’ifano and Olympic gold medalist Semi Kunatani. The team will be led by esteemed coaches Stephen Hoiles and David Dennis, both of whom have a wealth of experience in Super Rugby.

The Fijian Drua has quickly endeared itself to rugby fans around the world with its dynamic and exhilarating style of play. Since joining the Super Rugby Pacific, the Drua has reached the playoffs in each of the last two seasons and is led by talented co-captains Tevita Ikanivere and Frank Lomani.

Baden Stephenson, General Manager of Rugby for the Fijian Drua, expressed excitement about hosting RFCLA, highlighting the game as a new challenge that will allow players and fans alike to engage with a different rugby culture. He noted that the match offers an opportunity to strengthen the Drua’s global presence, especially in burgeoning markets like Los Angeles.

RFCLA CEO Pete Sickle conveyed gratitude to the Fijian Drua for making this landmark opportunity possible, referring to the match as a reflection of RFCLA’s growth and hope for building lasting traditions between the two clubs and their countries.

With the next Olympics set to take place in Los Angeles and the 2031 Rugby World Cup to be hosted in the USA, Super Rugby Pacific CEO Jack Mesley emphasized the significance of this fixture for rugby’s development in America. MLR CEO Nic Benson echoed this sentiment, stating that not only does this matchup prepare RFCLA for its season, but it also marks a crucial milestone in MLR’s journey toward international recognition.

Fans will have a unique opportunity to meet players on the field after the match, further enhancing the communal experience surrounding this groundbreaking event.

This historic fixture not only celebrates the sport of rugby but also signifies a hopeful connection between the United States and Fiji, promising an exciting day of rugby that unites players and fans across continents.

In summary, the match represents a notable step in expanding rugby’s global footprint, paving the way for future collaborations between leagues and promoting engagement among diverse rugby communities. As both teams prepare for this momentous occasion, anticipation continues to build for what promises to be an unforgettable experience.