On January 24, 2025, a significant chapter in rugby history will be written as Rugby Football Club Los Angeles (RFCLA) faces the Fijian Drua at Churchill Park in Lautoka, Fiji. This match represents the inaugural meeting between a Major League Rugby (MLR) team and a Super Rugby Pacific squad, highlighting the expanding global presence of rugby in both the United States and Fiji.

In a move to ensure accessibility for fans, the Fijian Drua has set ticket prices at a modest $5 for ground access and $10 for seats in the stands. This initiative demonstrates the commitment of both teams to engage a broader audience and promote rugby at grassroots levels.

RFCLA has recently bolstered its roster with notable signings, including Olympic gold medalist Semi Kunatani and former Moana Pasifika captain Christian Leali’ifano. The team will be under the experienced guidance of coaches Stephen Hoiles and David Dennis, who have extensive backgrounds in Super Rugby, promising an exciting display of talent.

Since joining the Super Rugby Pacific, the Fijian Drua has captured the hearts of fans globally with their dynamic playing style, successfully reaching the playoffs in the last two seasons. The team is helmed by co-captains Tevita Ikanivere and Frank Lomani, who lead a roster rich in talent known as the “Flying Fijians.”

Baden Stephenson, General Manager of Rugby for the Fijian Drua, expressed his excitement about hosting RFCLA, emphasizing the match as a fresh challenge that offers players and fans the opportunity to connect and foster new partnerships on an international scale. RFCLA’s CEO, Pete Sickle, echoed this sentiment, expressing gratitude to the Drua for facilitating this unique opportunity and highlighting the growth RFCLA has experienced in its inaugural year.

Super Rugby Pacific CEO Jack Mesley spoke to the significance of this fixture, especially with the U.S. set to host the 2028 Olympics and the 2031 Rugby World Cup, indicating that the match represents a pivotal moment for rugby’s development in America.

Fans eager to attend can purchase tickets online and across local outlets, and after the match, there will be a unique opportunity for attendees to meet players on the field, enhancing community engagement and creating memorable experiences.

This historic clash not only promises an exhilarating day of rugby but also symbolizes a hopeful future for international collaboration, fostering deeper connections between the United States and Fiji. As both leagues continue to evolve, this event is anticipated to inspire and unite rugby fans worldwide, showcasing the sport’s potential for growth and connectivity in the international arena.