History will be made on January 24, 2025, when Rugby Football Club Los Angeles (RFCLA) faces the Fijian Drua in an unprecedented match at Churchill Park in Lautoka, Fiji. This event marks the first-ever contest between a Major League Rugby (MLR) team and a Super Rugby Pacific squad, underscoring the expanding global footprint of both leagues.

The Fijian Drua has set accessible ticket prices at just $5 for grass embankment seating and $10 for stands, demonstrating a commitment to encouraging fan attendance at this landmark event, which highlights the burgeoning popularity of rugby in both the United States and Fiji.

RFCLA has been making considerable strides on the international rugby scene, bolstered by the recent signings of top players like Christian Leali’ifano and Olympic gold medalist Semi Kunatani. The team will also be under the guidance of esteemed coaches Stephen Hoiles and David Dennis, both prominent figures in Australian rugby, promising an exciting lineup for spectators.

The Fijian Drua has quickly endearing itself to fans with their dynamic style of play since joining the Super Rugby Pacific, having reached the playoffs in their last two seasons. Co-captains Tevita Ikanivere and Frank Lomani lead the talented squad, showcasing a wealth of skilled “Flying Fijians.”

Baden Stephenson, General Manager of Rugby for the Fijian Drua, expressed enthusiasm about hosting RFCLA, highlighting the match as a new challenge that will strengthen international ties and provide players and fans with a unique cultural exchange experience. RFCLA’s CEO, Pete Sickle, reflected on the significance of this event as indicative of his team’s growth in its inaugural year, hoping it will foster lasting traditions between the clubs and nations.

Super Rugby Pacific CEO Jack Mesley noted the timing of the match is particularly fitting, given that the USA is set to host the 2028 Olympics and the 2031 Rugby World Cup, indicating a strong and promising future for rugby in America. Similarly, MLR CEO Nic Benson remarked that this game will not only help prepare RFCLA for their upcoming season but also represents a critical milestone in the league’s ongoing evolution and expansion.

Tickets for the match can be purchased online and from various local outlets. In a unique post-match opportunity, fans will have the chance to meet the players on the field, further enriching the community experience surrounding this groundbreaking event.

This highly anticipated match represents not only a thrilling day of rugby but also a hopeful milestone for promoting international collaborations and connections between the United States and Fiji. As both leagues continue to evolve, this clash serves as a promising sign for the future of rugby, creating bonds that extend beyond borders.