Nations Championship 2026 Launched in Suva

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka yesterday launched the Nations Championship 2026 in Suva, outlining the potential benefits of the new biennial rugby competition for Fiji.

Speaking at the launch on 23 February 2026, Hon. Rabuka described the tournament as a significant development for the country’s rugby future and its long-term sporting pathways.

“With rugby DNA flowing through our veins, our commitment to and pride in the game is more than a passion — it is our identity. We remain optimistic that soon, we will proudly host these matches right here on our Fijian soil,” Hon. Rabuka stated.

The Nations Championship will feature 12 nations — six from the Northern Hemisphere and six from the Southern Hemisphere — and will be played during non-Rugby World Cup years.

Hon. Rabuka said the competition would allow Fijian players to regularly compete against top-tier nations.

“This commitment will ensure that future generations of Fijian rugby players test themselves against the very best. It strengthens rankings, competitiveness, and long-term development pathways.”

He added that rugby plays a central role in Fiji’s national identity and that the tournament reflects core values such as respect, discipline, integrity, passion, and solidarity.

“Our victories over Tier One nations like Wales, England, and France have proven that Fiji’s place in global rugby is not just a dream, but a living reality. This tournament, however, represents something different. It is a chance for Fiji to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the rugby elite in a permanent, official, global competition.”

In July, Fiji is scheduled to host three fixtures under the new framework:

Fiji vs Wales – 4 July at Cardiff City Stadium

Fiji vs England – 11 July at Hill Dickinson Stadium

Fiji vs Scotland – 18 July at Murrayfield

The matches will be played in Europe due to current facility requirements. Hon. Rabuka described this as a transitional phase.

“Each match is not only a contest of physicality and skill, it is a demonstration of Fiji’s growing rugby maturity: tactical discipline, structured set-pieces, defensive organisation, and the creative flair that has become our global signature.”

The Prime Minister, a former national rugby player, said structured competitions would also strengthen domestic rugby systems.

“Through structured competitions like the Nations Championship, we strengthen domestic pathways — ensuring young players see a clear progression from grassroots rugby to provincial representation, to national selection, and ultimately to the global stage.

“Beyond the field, rugby builds employable skills — leadership, teamwork, time management, resilience and strategic thinking. These are competencies that translate directly into the workforce and contribute to national productivity.”