AWESOME! World Rugby Council reinstates Fiji
The Fiji Rugby Union (FRU), which had been suspended for “governance challenges” about 15 months ago, has now been allowed back onto the governing body’s council by World Rugby.
The World Rugby Executive Board meeting held late last month confirmed the decision.
“Fiji has been reinstated to the World Rugby Council with immediate effect, following the Executive Board’s approval of the Fiji Oversight Committee’s recommendation to reinstate the union,” World Rugby announced on X, which used to be Twitter.
“This follows the adoption of a new constitution and governance structure in line with the required roadmap outlined in May 2023,” it stated.
After the coalition government took over last year and formed an interim Board to establish a new constitution and system, the FRU was expelled from the council.
The FRU said in a statement on Wednesday that it “will continue to work diligently to uphold the values and standards expected by World Rugby.”
Peter Mazey, the head of the FRU Interim Board, expressed his excitement over the news.
“We are incredibly grateful for the support of World Rugby and the commitment shown by our stakeholders during this process,” Mazey stated.
“The ratification of our new constitution and organizational structure demonstrates our commitment to advancing Fiji Rugby. This reinstatement is a win for all of our players, coaches, and supporters who have supported us throughout this time, not just for our union.
According to him, it will enable the union to “continue our mission of growing the game of rugby in Fiji and to strengthen our ties within the global rugby community.”
He stated that the FRU is excited to collaborate with the members of the World Rugby Council.
The World Rugby Integrity Code will now need to be followed when the FRU chooses a representative to the World Rugby Council.
The FRU’s next move will be to announce the annual general meeting, where members of provincial unions from all over the nation will be voting for a new Board.
The announcement is made as the Flying Fijians are ready to defend their Pacific Nations Cup championship from the previous year.