Semi Radradra, the star player for the Flying Fijians, faces the possibility of missing the opening of the 2024/25 French Top 14 season with his new team Lyon due to visa complications involving his son.
The 32-year-old, originally from Somosomo in Taveuni, returned to Fiji after a match against the All Blacks on July 20 in San Diego. However, an issue with paperwork for his son has delayed his return to France, just 11 days ahead of Lyon’s first game.
Radradra believed he could fly back to France without securing a visa for his son, but boarding was denied, prompting an urgent effort to rectify the documentation.
According to a report from L’Equipe, Radradra remains in Fiji due to a “French administration imbroglio.” His son, who is under a year old and was born in France, was listed on Radradra’s passport, leading to the misunderstanding regarding the need for a visa. Ultimately, a visa became necessary, and while an application has been submitted, it might take up to 10 days to process.
It is anticipated that Radradra could return to France by Friday at the earliest, but he is expected to arrive before the Top 14 resumes. An update on his physical condition will be provided upon his return. Lyon is scheduled to begin their season away against Montpellier on September 7.