A dispute has emerged over the allocation of Albert Park in Suva, causing friction between the Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) and the Fiji Football Association (Fiji FA). The controversy stems from the Suva City Council (SCC) granting the venue to the FRU for an upcoming event, after both organizations negotiated for its use.
During an interview, SCC’s acting chief executive Tevita Boseiwaqa explained the council’s reasoning, stating that the FRU was ready to pay the required fees, whereas the Fiji FA was still in the midst of negotiations for a lower rate. Initially, the Fiji FA had proposed securing the grounds for $1,000 per day, while the SCC had lowered the venue fee from $69,000 to $25,000 after negotiations.
Boseiwaqa’s assertion that the SCC did not inform the Fiji FA about the FRU’s interest contrasts with claims made by Fiji FA’s general manager of operations, Anushil Kumar. Kumar argued that they were misled during earlier discussions, where they were assured that the FRU had not made any bookings. He indicated that, as their organization sought to secure just two grounds for training purposes, they were negotiating in good faith, only to find themselves sidelined when the SCC favored the FRU’s proposal.
This situation highlights ongoing challenges within Fiji’s sporting landscape, where coordination between various sporting bodies is crucial. Similar issues have arisen previously, such as scheduling conflicts at other venues like the HFC Bank Stadium, prompting calls for improved communication and management among sports organizations in the country.
Despite the current disagreement, there remains hope for a collaborative spirit that could lead to better resolutions for both rugby and football in Fiji. These challenges present an opportunity for growth and the potential for both sports to gain recognition at international events, especially with significant tournaments forthcoming. As the sporting community looks forward, it’s essential to foster cooperation that can nurture a vibrant sports culture in Fiji, benefiting athletes and fans alike.
Leave a comment