History will be made on January 24, 2025, when Rugby Football Club Los Angeles (RFCLA) faces the Fijian Drua in a groundbreaking matchup at Churchill Park in Lautoka, Fiji. This momentous occasion marks the first-ever contest between a Major League Rugby (MLR) team and a Super Rugby Pacific squad, showcasing the expanding global reach of both leagues and the evolving landscape of rugby.

The timing of the match is yet to be confirmed, but the Fijian Drua aims to make it available to a wide audience, offering tickets at an affordable price of $5 for grass embankment seating and $10 for stands, ensuring fans can experience this historic event without significant financial burden.

RFCLA has made significant strides in the international rugby scene, highlighted by key signings such as Christian Leali’ifano, and will be under the guidance of Waratahs and Super Rugby Pacific title-winning coaches Stephen Hoiles and David Dennis. The squad also features Fijian favorite and Olympic gold medalist Semi Kunatani, promising an exciting lineup.

The Fijian Drua, renowned for their captivating playing style, quickly gained support in the rugby community since their Super Rugby Pacific debut, reaching the playoffs in both their preceding seasons. Led by co-captains Tevita Ikanivere and Frank Lomani, they have become fan favorites not just in Fiji but worldwide.

Baden Stephenson, General Manager of Rugby for the Fijian Drua, expressed excitement about hosting the RFCLA, stating that this match sets a precedent for future interactions between the leagues. “This game will present our players, coaches, and fans with a new and enriching challenge,” he noted, highlighting the potential for further international partnerships.

RFCLA CEO Pete Sickle conveyed gratitude towards the Fijian Drua for facilitating this historical opportunity, emphasizing the growth and success RFCLA has achieved in just a year. Super Rugby Pacific CEO Jack Mesley remarked on the timing of this match, coinciding with the USA hosting the next Olympics and the 2031 Rugby World Cup, underscoring the promising trajectory of rugby in America.

MLR CEO Nic Benson added that this matchup not only prepares RFCLA for their upcoming season but also marks an important milestone in the league’s development, hinting at the increased international collaboration.

Tickets for the match can be secured online or through various local outlets, and fans will have the unique chance to meet their favorite players on the field after the game, providing an enjoyable and engaging experience for attendees.

This upcoming fixture not only promises an exciting addition to the rugby calendar but also symbolizes a hopeful future where international rugby continues to thrive, creating bonds between cultures and communities.

In summary, the match between RFCLA and the Fijian Drua represents an important step toward expanding rugby’s presence globally and engaging fans in a unique way. As both teams prepare for this historic event, anticipation builds for what promises to be an unforgettable encounter.