The Malolo Rugby Club has raised alarm over apparent discrepancies in the gate revenue from the 2025 Skipper Cup competition, as expressed in a Facebook post that calls for greater transparency and accountability from both the Fiji Sports Council (FSC) and the Fiji Rugby Union (FRU).
FSC indicated that the Skipper Cup final attracted about 11,000 spectators, with tickets priced at $20 each, theoretically generating around $220,000 in ticket sales. However, reported earnings were significantly lower at just over $59,000, prompting serious concerns regarding financial management, especially since no comprehensive breakdown of ticket sales or deductions was provided.
Malolo and fellow finalists Naitasiri were expected to receive a fair share from the gate earnings, likely around $20,000 each. Yet discrepancies in reported figures have raised questions about the actual distribution of funds. For instance, the Naitasiri men’s team experienced a deduction of $1,383.78 from their share, with those funds redirected to their U20 team, further complicating the situation.
The club’s post highlighted concerns regarding unprofessional handling of money within ticket booths, evidenced by a photo reportedly taken by an official from Vatukoula.
Malolo’s inquiry highlighted two critical questions: First, how did the semi-finals, which drew over 9,000 attendees, yield only about $56,000, while the final, with a sold-out crowd, brought in just $59,878.77? Second, why were allowances for FRU staff deducted directly from match-day revenue, passing the burden of administrative costs onto the participating teams?
The concerns extend to player compensation as well, with Malolo’s promised prize money slashed from $20,000 to just over $16,000 due to fines linked to compliance issues during the team’s rebuilding phase. Furthermore, meal allowances were reduced drastically, leaving the team with only $120 through mobile payments on the day of the finals, a sharp decline from the originally pledged $1,000.
In response to these allegations, Fiji Rugby Union Chairman John Sanday stated that the organization would seek to clarify the facts associated with the claims before issuing further comments. Additionally, inquiries directed to Fiji Sports Council CEO Gilbert Vakalalabure had not been addressed by the time this article was published.
This call for transparency is vital for the integrity of the sport and the organizations involved, as stakeholders and fans alike seek assurances that funds are being managed appropriately. The Malolo Rugby Club’s commitment to accountability reflects a broader concern within the sporting community for fairness and professionalism in financial dealings.
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