The Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) has shed light on an internal standoff that occurred just days before the Flying Fijians’ Rugby World Cup quarter-final against England, following allegations of corruption and delayed payments made by former captain Waisea Nayacalevu.
In an official response, FRU is calling on Nayacalevu to provide specific evidence to support his accusations of corruption at the union.
FRU also confirmed that some players, led by Nayacalevu, threatened to boycott the crucial match unless their promised bonuses were paid ahead of time.
The union, under immense pressure, had no choice but to seek intervention from the Fijian government to ensure payments were processed sooner than planned.
Despite the threat, FRU clarified that each player was eventually paid their sign-on fee of $30,000(US$15,000), daily allowances, and bonuses, with players earning around FJD $105,000 (US$52,500) for their participation in the World Cup.
The FRU expressed regret over the ordeal but reaffirmed its focus on improving the management of future tournaments while supporting national teams.
Meanwhile, a financial system delay is being attributed to the delay of $20,000(US$10,000) payout to the players of the Fiji men’s team which took out the silver medal at the Paris Olympics.
Concerns have been raised by members of the Fiji 7s team who say they are yet to receive the sum.
Speaking to FBC Sports, Minister for Youth and Sports Jese Saukuru confirmed that the payment has not yet been made.
He said that while the funds and logistics are ready, the delay is due to issues with the government’s new financial system.
“Delay is with our financial system, the Ministry of Finances’ new financial system and accounting system so that’s what is causing the delay at the moment.”
Saukuru adds the delay in payments extends beyond just the incentive scheme, affecting various government projects across the board.
The coalition government had promised financial rewards ahead of the Olympics, pledging $50,000(US$25,000) for a gold medal, $20,000 (US$10,000) for silver and $10,000 (US$5,000) for bronze.
The Fiji 7s team was officially recognized at the Fiji Sports Awards two weeks ago, where they were presented with a ceremonial cheque.
Saukuru assured that efforts are being made to resolve the issue, with the goal of completing the payments by the end of this week.
