History will be made on January 24, 2025, as Rugby Football Club Los Angeles (RFCLA) take on the Fijian Drua in a groundbreaking match at Churchill Park in Lautoka, Fiji. This contest marks the first-ever face-off between a Major League Rugby (MLR) team and a Super Rugby Pacific squad, highlighting the expanding global reach of both leagues and the growing popularity of rugby in both the United States and Fiji.
To encourage widespread attendance, the Fijian Drua has set ticket prices at just $5 for grass embankment seating and $10 for stands, ensuring fans have access to this landmark event. This initiative underscores the commitment of both leagues to promote rugby and engage a larger audience.
RFCLA has significantly enhanced its international profile, bolstered by the signings of notable players such as Christian Leali’ifano and Olympic gold medalist Semi Kunatani. The team is coached by accomplished figures Stephen Hoiles and David Dennis, both of whom have a rich history in Super Rugby, promising an exhilarating display on the field.
The Fijian Drua has garnered a global following thanks to their dynamic style of play and has reached the playoffs in both of their past two Super Rugby Pacific seasons. Their talented roster is led by co-captains Tevita Ikanivere and Frank Lomani.
Baden Stephenson, the General Manager of Rugby for the Fijian Drua, expressed excitement about the upcoming match, viewing it as a unique opportunity for players and fans alike to engage in a cross-cultural rugby experience. RFCLA’s CEO, Pete Sickle, thanked the Fijian Drua for facilitating this historic opportunity, emphasizing it as a reflection of the franchise’s growth in its inaugural year and expressing hopes for enduring traditions between the two clubs.
Super Rugby Pacific CEO Jack Mesley acknowledged the significance of this match against the backdrop of major upcoming events in American rugby, including the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics and the 2031 Rugby World Cup. MLR CEO Nic Benson reiterated the importance of the matchup for RFCLA, as it provides valuable experience and positions both leagues for further international collaboration.
Tickets are available online and through various local outlets, and fans will have the special chance to meet players on the field after the match, creating an intimate and memorable sporting experience.
This landmark event not only signifies a thrilling day of rugby but also represents a bright future for international collaboration, fostering connections between the United States and Fiji. As both leagues continue to evolve, this historic encounter stands as a hopeful testament to the potential for rugby’s growth and the exciting paths that lie ahead.
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