Football in Fiji has reached a landmark moment with Bula Boys FC confirmed as one of the eight preferred clubs for the inaugural OFC Professional League, set to begin on January 10, 2026.
The Suva-based side will proudly fly Fiji’s flag in Oceania’s first-ever professional football competition, a tournament that will also act as the region’s qualifier for the 2029 FIFA Club World Cup™. For the Bula Boys, it represents a breakthrough opportunity to compete at the highest level in the Pacific and test themselves against some of the region’s best.
They will face strong opposition in Hekari United FC (Papua New Guinea), Solomon Kings FC (Solomon Islands), Tahiti United FC (Tahiti), Vanuatu FC (Vanuatu), New Zealand giants Auckland FC and Christchurch United FC, as well as South Melbourne FC from Australia.
The format will see clubs travel across the Pacific in a circuit series, each playing at least 17 matches between January and May. The top four sides will progress to the Leaders Playoff Group, while the rest battle in the Challengers Playoff Group for a shot at the semi-finals.
OFC General Secretary Franck Castillo said:
“This is a historic moment for Oceania football. For the first time, our region will have a professional league that provides a pathway for players, coaches, and clubs to compete at the highest level within the Pacific.
The eight preferred clubs represent the diversity and passion of our Member Associations, and while there are still final steps to be completed, today marks a major milestone on our journey towards January 2026.”
For Fiji, all eyes will be on the Bula Boys as they prepare to inspire a new era in Fijian football.