‘We will have a discussion about what happens next for Fiji’: Gilpin

According to World Rugby CEO Alan Gilpin, there will be a discussion about Fiji’s seat on the organization’s council within the next four weeks.

In May 2023, Fiji Rugby was suspended from the World Rugby Council and its voting privileges were taken away. Prior to the suspension, Cathy Wong served as the council representative for FRU.

As a result of the ruling, the Fiji Rugby Union was barred from voting on any World Rugby matter until its legality and governance concerns were resolved.

“Their (FRU) council rights were suspended whilst the governance review was undertaken,” Gilpin told the Fiji Times. We’ve collaborated closely on everything, just like we do with Fijian rugby.

In addition to Fiji Rugby, we are closely collaborating with the Fijian government, which has recently undergone reforms. In four weeks, there will be a council meeting where we will discuss the future of Fiji.

“Fiji is such an important part of rugby for us, not just in the Oceania region, especially in 7s,” the speaker said.

Gilpin has also talked about the issue of who will lead the Flying Fijians in the future. Gilpin stated that World Rugby was in discussions with Fiji Rugby and the Fijian government over the appointment of the most qualified coach for the Flying Fijians. An announcement date of February was initially suggested, but at this moment, a decision has been postponed.

During a news conference in Hong Kong, Gilpin stated, “We want Fiji to have the best coaches and to develop great local coaches in Fiji, whether we are talking about men’s, women’s, or men’s 15s, women’s 7s, or men’s 15s.”

“Over the years, we have undoubtedly given a great deal of support—not just financial help, but also our best effort to reward good achievement, and we will keep doing so. We have discussed the ideal structure to ensure that Fiji has the best coaches in the short term and a developing grade in the long run with Fiji Rugby and the Fijian government.

FOR MORE NEWS CLICK HERE