Fiji’s bid for hosting the 2031 Pacific Games met all the necessary requirements and presented the lowest amount of risk compared with Tonga and Vanuatu.

Despite this, Tonga received 12 votes while Fiji received only nine for the bid, which came as a surprise to many.

In a press conference with Makarita Lenoa, president of the Fiji Association of Sports and National Olympic Committee (FASANOC), it was emphasised that Fiji’s bid was in line with the bid guidelines and protocols set by the Pacific Games Council.

The decision to award Tonga the hosting rights was made by the voting members of the Pacific Games Association, based on a thorough bid evaluation process.

“The risk assessment report showed that the risk for Fiji in all was low. PGA was also asked to take consideration of the different risk profiles in the bidding countries concerning the timely provision of games infrastructure and the timely provisions of games organisational funding especially where smooth and ongoing government support is required,” said Lenoa.

Despite this, Tonga was chosen as the host country for the 2031 Pacific Games.

It was also mentioned that Vanuatu had withdrawn its bid, leaving Tonga as the sole remaining candidate with a higher risk profile compared with Fiji.

“Future hosts are encouraged to ensure the welfare of athletes at the games is prioritised. The lack of local in-country technical officials is also addressed.

“As a hopeful bidding country for the 2031 Pacific Games, we were equally surprised with this decision.”

While Fiji was surprised by the outcome, it was emphasised that the decision ultimately rested with the individual voting members of the Pacific Games Association.