FRPA Launches European Division After Landmark Northern Tour

The Fiji Rugby Players Association (FRPA) has successfully established its first international branch, FRPA Europe, following a historic Northern Tour in partnership with the Fiji Rugby Union (FRU). The initiative marks a major milestone in supporting and protecting Fijian rugby players based overseas.

FRPA Chairman Ilivasi Tabua described the mission as a “tremendous success,” highlighting the strengthened partnerships forged across Europe, particularly in France.

“We are profoundly grateful to the Fiji Rugby Union for facilitating this important tour, and to Fiji’s Sports Ambassador, Mr. Julian Vulakoro, for his invaluable support in connecting us with key stakeholders,” Tabua said.

“This collaborative effort underscores a renewed commitment from Fiji’s rugby administration to prioritize player welfare.”

The FRPA delegation, which included FRU Chairman John Sanday, Board Member Anare Manulevu, and Acting CEO Koli Sewabu, met with the French Rugby Federation, major professional clubs, and other European stakeholders. Discussions centered on improving player welfare, professional conditions, and support systems for Fijians competing abroad.

FRPA Europe: A New Era for Fijian Players

A landmark outcome of the tour was the formal establishment of the FRPA Europe Division in France, the Association’s first branch outside Fiji. Former Flying Fijians Sisa Koyamaibole, Sunia Koto, Timoci Naqusa, and Masivanua Matadigo were named founding members and will spearhead efforts to support Fijian players throughout Europe.

The FRPA is now engaging the wider Fijian community in France to build a connected and supportive network for players.

Welfare, Transition, and Accountability

As part of its new initiatives, FRPA, working alongside the FRU and the French Rugby Federation, is developing structured programs to help players transition successfully into professional environments abroad. These include pre-departure orientation and post-rugby career planning.

“Player welfare is non-negotiable,” Tabua emphasized. “We are designing systems to prepare players before they leave Fiji and to support their career development and post-rugby planning while they are still playing.”

The tour also brought to light serious concerns regarding player agent conduct, with clubs in Paris and southwestern France reporting widespread exploitation. FRPA has pledged to address these issues and establish accountability mechanisms to protect players’ rights and welfare.

Building a Stronger Future

According to Tabua, the Northern Tour has laid the groundwork for long-term collaboration and player protection. FRPA Europe will also assist the FRU in coordinating Fiji’s upcoming Tier One test matches in Europe next year.

“This tour was just the beginning,” Tabua concluded. “We have covered critical ground to build a stronger future for Fijian rugby, one that safeguards our players and honors the legacy of those who came before us.”