Tonga has been selected to host the 2031 Pacific Games, marking a significant turnaround for the island nation seven years after it withdrew from hosting the 2019 Games. The announcement was made during a Pacific Games Council meeting in Koror, Palau, where council members voted on the host.
Tonga received 12 votes to secure its bid, surpassing Fiji, which garnered nine votes. This event will be the first Pacific Games held in Tonga since the 1989 Pacific Mini Games.
The successful bid comes after Tonga’s decision in 2016, led by the late former Prime Minister Samiuela Akilisi Pohiva, to cancel the 2019 Games, resulting in the event being relocated to Samoa. Subsequently, Tonga was suspended from the Pacific Games Council but regained its membership following a settlement two years ago.
Tongan Prime Minister Hu’akavameiliku Siaosi Sovaleni led the delegation at the meeting and expressed gratitude for the support received. He acknowledged the hard work ahead but expressed confidence in the nation’s ability to host the Games successfully with the assistance of the community and partners.
According to journalist Melielau Manu, who was present at the event, the announcement sparked joy and celebration among the Tongan delegation. The team, which included Lord Vaea, Minister for Sports, and two-time Olympian Pita Taufatofua, was determined to secure the hosting rights. Despite having a strong delegation, Fiji was not able to win enough votes for their bid.