Four Fijian teams are set to announce their participation in the upcoming Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) Professional League, as confirmed by Fiji Football Association (FFA) CEO Mohammed Yusuf. The names of these clubs will be revealed by the end of March. The league is slated to launch in January 2026 and has already attracted substantial interest, with 24 clubs across the Pacific region expressing their desire to join.
Notably, the interest includes six teams from New Zealand, along with expressions from clubs in Papua New Guinea, Australia, New Caledonia, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tahiti, and Vanuatu. Yusuf stated that preparations are underway to finalize documentation for these teams, which is expected to be completed by the end of the month.
Although the specific Fijian teams are not yet disclosed, Yusuf highlighted that they are actively working to meet the OFC Pro League’s requirements. He mentioned, “We cannot reveal any teams until the end of the month; they are busy preparing, and there is a lot of documentation required.”
The league is designed to establish a professional framework, with pre-season training scheduled to begin in November, and matches are set to kick off on January 10, running until the end of May. Yusuf acknowledged the fierce competition, particularly with significant applications from New Zealand, but remains hopeful that Fiji will secure at least two spots.
This initiative marks a pivotal moment for football in the Pacific, aiming to enhance competitive standards, performance levels, and opportunities within the sport. The establishment of the OFC Professional League not only represents a commitment to improving local football infrastructure but also aspires to unite the diverse cultures of the Pacific through the medium of sport.
Overall, the formation of the OFC Professional League promises a transformative opportunity for football in Fiji and the wider Oceania region, fostering community engagement and player development as the teams prepare for a future that includes a guaranteed spot in the 2026 World Cup.
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