Labasa’s football faithful may have another major tournament to look forward to in 2026, with Fiji Football Association president Rajesh Patel indicating at the closing ceremony that Subrail Park is in contention to host again. The possibility follows a sustained surge in attendance throughout the tournament week.
Crowds built from the outset, with 13,023 spectators recorded across the three pool-match days (3,967 on day one, 4,483 on day two, and 4,573 on day three). A further 14,171 fans attended the semi-finals and final, bringing the total to 27,194 and underscoring how strongly the Northern Division has embraced top-tier football on its doorstep.
That support proved decisive on the field. Backed by a relentless home crowd, Labasa lifted the Extra Battle of the Giants title. Head coach Alvin Chand paid tribute to the fans, noting that Labasa boasts the country’s largest football following and dedicating the win to supporters near and far. Jubilant scenes followed the final whistle as supporters streamed onto the pitch and celebrated across town with chants and car horns.
This year’s BOG marked the event’s return to Subrail Park after more than two decades, and the wider community rallied around it. Earlier in the tournament, Fiji FA leadership highlighted how Northern fans had long missed out on major fixtures often staged in Suva and Lautoka, and praised Labasa’s enthusiasm and inclusivity—fans not only cheered the Babasiga Lions but also got behind other teams. On matchdays, local vendors reported brisk business, activations and halftime activities added to the carnival feel, and recent investments such as upgraded floodlights helped Subrail Park deliver a polished hosting effort.
The strong turnout and title win also align with earlier signals from Fiji FA that future hosting would depend on performance and fan engagement. With both boxes ticked, Labasa presents a compelling case for more marquee events in 2026. Any formal decision will sit with Fiji FA, but the numbers, atmosphere, and economic uplift all point in a positive direction for Subrail Park and the Northern Division.
Additional comments:
– The attendance profile and community buy-in strengthen Labasa’s claim as a viable long-term venue for major tournaments, with clear benefits for local businesses and sports tourism.
– Continued incremental facility upgrades, transport planning, and accommodation coordination would further de-risk future events and enhance the spectator experience.
– Maintaining fan-centered activities and partnerships with local vendors and sponsors can sustain the festive environment that distinguished this year’s event.
Summary:
Fiji FA president Rajesh Patel says there’s a chance another major tournament will come to Subrail Park in 2026, buoyed by strong attendance and Labasa’s BOG triumph. The tournament drew 13,023 fans for pool matches and 14,171 for the semis and final, sparking town-wide celebrations. With the BOG returning to Labasa after 23 years and delivering both on-field success and off-field economic benefits, Labasa has made a strong case to host again.
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