History will be made on January 24, 2025, as Rugby Football Club Los Angeles (RFCLA) faces the Fijian Drua in a groundbreaking match at Churchill Park in Lautoka, Fiji. This event marks the first-ever encounter between a Major League Rugby (MLR) team and a Super Rugby Pacific squad, showcasing the expanding global footprint of rugby and the sport’s increasing popularity in both nations.

To ensure that fans can partake in this momentous occasion, the Fijian Drua has set affordable ticket prices: $5 for grass seating and $10 for stands. This initiative underscores the commitment of both leagues to engage a wider audience and promote rugby at a grassroots level.

RFCLA is enhancing its international presence, buoyed by signings of prominent players such as Christian Leali’ifano and Olympic gold medalist Semi Kunatani. The team will be led by respected coaches Stephen Hoiles and David Dennis, both of whom have considerable experience in Super Rugby, promising an exhilarating display of talent.

Since joining Super Rugby Pacific, the Fijian Drua has captivated rugby enthusiasts worldwide with their thrilling style of play. They have successfully reached the playoffs in both of the last two seasons, featuring a talented roster led by co-captains Tevita Ikanivere and Frank Lomani.

Baden Stephenson, the General Manager of Rugby for the Fijian Drua, shared his enthusiasm for hosting RFCLA, highlighting this matchup as a unique opportunity for players and fans to engage and connect while facing new challenges. RFCLA CEO Pete Sickle echoed these sentiments, expressing gratitude to the Drua for this opportunity, which reflects RFCLA’s growth in its inaugural year and hopes to inspire enduring traditions between both clubs and nations.

Jack Mesley, CEO of Super Rugby Pacific, emphasized the match’s importance, especially considering the upcoming 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles and the 2031 Rugby World Cup slated for the USA. This encounter stands to bolster rugby’s presence in America through collaboration between leagues.

Tickets are available for purchase online and at various local outlets. Fans will also have the unique chance to meet players on the field post-match, enhancing the experience and fostering community engagement.

This historic clash not only promises an exciting day of rugby but also serves as a hopeful milestone for international collaborations, creating opportunities for cultural exchange between the United States and Fiji. The unfolding excitement around this fixture reinforces the sport’s potential for growth and connection on the global stage.