Tonga has been awarded the opportunity to host the 2031 Pacific Games, marking a significant comeback for the nation after it withdrew from hosting the 2019 Games. The announcement was made in Koror, Palau, on Friday, following a vote among the Pacific Games Council members.
Tonga secured the hosting rights with a total of 12 votes, surpassing Fiji, which received nine votes. This will be the first time Tonga hosts the Pacific Games since the 1989 Pacific Mini Games.
The successful bid comes after Tonga had to cancel its hosting of the 2019 Games, a decision made by the late former prime minister Samiuela Akilisi Pohiva. As a result, the Pacific Games Council relocated the event to Samoa. Following this, Tonga faced suspension from the Council, but the government negotiated an out-of-court settlement two years ago, allowing the nation to rejoin the Council and pursue hosting the Games once again.
Tongan Prime Minister Hu’akavameiliku Siaosi Sovaleni led the delegation at the meeting in Palau. He expressed gratitude to the members for their support, emphasizing the hard work ahead and the confidence in Tonga’s ability to successfully host the event.
Journalist Melielau Manu, covering the event, reported the excitement among Team Tonga during the vote announcement. The Tongan delegation celebrated the news, highlighting their determination and the strong support they received, including from Lord Vaea, the Minister responsible for Sports, and two-time Olympian Pita Taufatofua.
Despite a strong presence from Fiji at the event, the voting did not favor them.