Fiji Rugby Union and World Rugby join ONOC President for Pacific Talanoa Session

Suva, Fiji – 30 April 2025 – The Fiji Rugby Union (FRU), together with representatives from World Rugby, participated in a special Talanoa lunch session hosted by Dr. Robin Mitchell, President of the Oceania National Olympic Committees (ONOC), at the ONOC Office in Suva.

Dr. Mitchell, one of the most respected figures in global sport, currently serves as President of the Association of National Olympic Committees (ANOC), Chair of the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) Olympic Solidarity and Medical & Science Commissions, and is an IOC member.

FRU was represented by Chairman John Sandy, Board members Koli Sewabu and Cathy Wong, and CEO Rovereto Nayacalevu. Also attending were World Rugby’s Clare Barrell, Jason Lewis, and Nicky Ponsford; David Gibson from Rugby Australia; and Tonga Rugby Union CERO, Aisea Aholelei.

The Talanoa provided a valuable opportunity for open and meaningful dialogue around collaboration in Pacific sport. It served as a platform to explore partnerships ahead of key international events such as the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games.

ONOC Executive Director Inoke Bainimarama shared insights into ONOC’s strategic focus areas, particularly the ongoing “Engage Phase” from 2023 to 2025.

“To move forward, we’ve initiated engagement with key Australian stakeholders, and our member NOC—the Australian Olympic Committee,” said Bainimarama.

He also highlighted recent efforts to connect Pacific athletes with high-performance programs through partnerships with Queensland universities, with the aim of aligning targeted sports and athletes with elite training opportunities in Australia.

Rugby’s continued success and its potential legacy leading into Brisbane 2032 were central themes of the discussion. The Pacific has a proud history of rugby excellence, and the group reflected on how to sustain and grow this success.

The session also allowed FRU to brief Dr. Mitchell on its future plans, particularly in the lead-up to the Rugby World Cup 2027 (Men’s) and 2029 (Women’s), both set to be hosted in Australia.

FRU Chairman John Sandy expressed gratitude for the opportunity to engage with Dr. Mitchell.

“Vinaka vakalevu to Dr. Mitchell for this invaluable Talanoa,” said Sandy. “It wasn’t just a meeting—it was a moment to share, learn, and grow together.”

Sandy emphasized FRU’s current transformation, including efforts to strengthen governance and commercial strategies.

“We are focused on building stability and strategic direction. With the support of the General Meeting, we now have a strong Board of Directors, and the foundation laid over the past six months is beginning to bear fruit.”

“Most importantly,” he added, “we are here to listen and learn from Dr. Mitchell’s journey and leadership. His experience within the Olympic movement holds lessons we can apply in our own path forward.”

The session reaffirmed the spirit of unity and collaboration that continues to define Pacific sport, with rugby playing a central role in driving regional excellence.