The dreams of Fijian Drua to one day participate at a Super Rugby level is on the verge of becoming a reality.
This as Fiji welcomed New Zealand Rugby’s acknowledgement of Fiji Rugby being a preferred partner in future professional rugby competition for the2022 seasons and beyond.
In a statement issued today, Fiji Rugby Union CEO John O’Connor said this was a momentous day for Fijian rugby.
“We submitted a comprehensive and compelling proposal to NZR in August this year, and our continued discussions and negotiations have now borne fruit. We have a lot of work to do with NZR and other national unions, but our potential entry is really exciting,” O’Connor said.
“We have been talking to private investors for some time, and are confident that with private equity and the support of World Rugby and Government, we can secure the necessary funding that will satisfy NZR’s requirements and ensure that the Drua can kick off in 2022 with a high quality team that is competitive.”
O’Connor said their goal was to win the competition within five years, and this was a chance to attract many best players back from Europe and also keep emerging talent at home on fair and attractive playing contracts.
He said FRU was also looking for Investors willing to take equity shares in the venture, which would be operated from a separate company to that of the FRU.
