Fiji Rugby is relying on sponsors, donors and internal support to meet the financial demands of the newly established Fijian Latui programme, with the union taking responsibility for ensuring players are properly supported.

As the Fiji Water Flying Fijians gear up for their opening game of the Nations Championship, winger Jiuta Wainiqolo says they have been making the most of the past few days working on their game plan against the French.

The Fijian Latui is giving local players another opportunity to put themselves in contention for the FIJI Water Flying Fijians’ 2027 Rugby World Cup squad, with Fiji Rugby stressing that national selection will not be guaranteed for any player.

Fiji Rugby is banking on the newly launched Fijian Latui to strengthen its international pathways and prepare the next generation of players for the demands of professional rugby.

The Skipper Cup competition will have a strong presence in the Fijian Latui squad, with 10 locally based players earning selection in the 37-member team announced by Fiji Rugby today.

Defending champions Naitasiri are determined to make a strong start to their Farebrother Trophy defence when they take on Ra Rugby in the opening challenge this weekend.

The Fiji Men’s Deaf 7s side continues to make its mark at the World Deaf 7s Championship in Japan, securing a place in the semi-finals following an impressive run of performances.

Fiji Rugby is preparing to assemble another Skipper Select team featuring some of the best performers from this year’s provincial competition, while also establishing a women’s development side as part of its plans to strengthen the country’s rugby depth.

The INKK Farebrother Trophy challenge will take centre stage this weekend following the conclusion of the Skipper Cup competition, with Fiji Rugby confirming a standalone format for this year’s challenge.

Fiji Rugby board chair John Sanday says while he is pleased with the standard of rugby delivered throughout the 2026 Skipper Cup season, he is sad to see the competition come to an end after an exciting year of action.

Nadroga captain Manueli Ratuniyarawa says years of hard work and belief have finally paid off after guiding the Stallions to the 2026 Skipper Cup title with a hard-fought 24-22 victory over Nadi at Churchill Park in Lautoka.

Nadroga have been crowned the 2026 Skipper Cup champions after surviving a tense finish to edge Nadi 24-22 in a thrilling final at Churchill Park in Lautoka this afternoon.