Fiji Rugby Union Chair Francis Kean has confirmed they are in advanced discussions with NZR to alternate hosting of the existing January fixture on the World Rugby 7s Series.
Kean says that whilst it was disappointing for the bid to be unsuccessful, he appreciated World Rugby’s reasons.
FRU Chairman Commander Francis Kean [left] with Flying Fijians coach John McKee [Source: RNZ]
He says they still have a lot of work to get this over the line and their priority is to continue to work very hard to ensure they achieve full compliance for World Rugby and NZ Rugby compliance requirements in the next month.
Kean says Fijian fans will turn out in thousands to support their team, and they expect to attract large volumes of overseas rugby fans to experience Fiji’s hospitality and passion for Sevens rugby.
This young girl won’t forget this!
Lifted high by the Fiji 7s team as she brings in the ball before the Rugby 7s Final in Hamilton, New Zealand!pic.twitter.com/R3Nhtm6FGO— Barça Women (@BarcaWomen) January 27, 2019
In March 2018, with extensive support from the Fiji Government, Fiji Rugby submitted a bid to World Rugby proposing the introduction of an 11th leg of the Series, to be played in October as a new Opening round.
? FIJI have won the #Hamilton7s!
A great showing by the defending champions of the Hamilton Sevens with a great victory over the USA Eagles.@fijirugby 38 – 0 @USARugby
? Ridiqiulas Photography pic.twitter.com/ReC49oeqDT
— Oceania Rugby (@oceaniarugby) January 27, 2019
World Rugby since announced, whilst Fiji’s bid was very attractive, the current ten tournament structure will remain in place for the next four years.
Hamilton Suva 7’s ???? We’re the best 7s supporters in the world! ✊?
Congratulations @FIJI7sRugby ? pic.twitter.com/HYqWwIxIf3
— HāiVaHewa (@SamuelaKuridran) January 27, 2019
However, in a boost to keeping Fiji’s dreams of bringing the Sevens tournament to the islands alive, NZR has offered to alternate it’s hosting of the New Zealand 7’s with Fiji, with Kean advising that current discussions and negotiations are at an advanced stage.
Debut season and 2 trophies from 3 tournaments. Not bad for the new kids on the block #NZSevens #Hamilton7s pic.twitter.com/5jpKBFCkiS
— Fiji 7s Team (@Fiji7sTeam) January 27, 2019
Meanwhile, New Zealand Rugby Chief Rugby Officer, Nigel Cass confirmed reports that NZR were talking to World Rugby and Fiji Rugby about hosting the event in Fiji during the 2020-2023 cycle.
New Zealand Rugby Chief Rugby Officer, Nigel Cass [Source: Zimbio]