Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has raised concerns regarding the unsatisfactory state of the HFC Bank Stadium during the FIJI Water Flying Fijians Test match against Scotland held last Saturday. His comments come after significant criticism on social media about the stadium’s condition, prompting calls for accountability from the relevant authorities.
The Prime Minister noted that the pitch presented serious issues, including soft patches and uneven surfaces, which he deemed unsuitable for an international rugby match. “Last Saturday, we made history, it was a proud day for Fiji, but one that was unfortunately let down by the poor condition of the pitch,” he stated, expressing disappointment at the management of the facility overseen by the Fiji Sports Council.
Rabuka is seeking a detailed explanation from the Minister responsible, emphasizing the dangers of overloaded scheduling that compromises athlete safety. Hours after the rugby match, the same pitch was prepared for the OFC Women’s Nations Cup playoffs, raising significant concerns about the surface quality for both events.
Minister for Youth and Sports Jese Saukuru acknowledged in parliament that while Fiji’s sporting success warrants better infrastructure, maintenance has not kept pace. He revealed that the Sports Council struggles to maintain facilities at international standards, with limited funding allocated for improvement. For the 2025-2026 national budget, the Ministry has received $23.3 million, with only a fraction earmarked for the Sports Council and constructing new facilities, illustrating ongoing challenges in upgrading crucial sports infrastructure.
The situation at HFC Bank Stadium reflects broader themes regarding the governance of sports in Fiji. Previous discussions have highlighted the necessity for better facility management and scheduling practices to uphold the country’s emerging status in international sports. As Fiji aims for enhanced recognition and success in sports, it is essential for stakeholders to collaborate effectively, ensuring safe and quality venues for future events.
Looking forward, there is optimism that addressing these pressing infrastructure issues can lead to a revitalized sporting culture in Fiji. By prioritizing improvements, the nation can not only support its athletes but also elevate its international standing in various sports, fostering community pride and encouraging participation in athletics.
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