The FIFA World Cup 2026 got underway late last week, and the world is now focused on an event that continues to capture the imagination of millions of fans.
This is the 23rd edition of the tournament but the first, according to the official FIFA site, to feature 48 teams and three host countries: Canada, Mexico and the United States.
You can talk about excitement, emotions, fun and joy. You can talk about dreams, aspirations and the hopes of millions of fans who proudly wear their nation’s colours.
This is it! This is when the world of soccer comes to a standstill.
This is when fans will be latched on with great anticipation and excitement to their screens, watching their favourite teams take the field against the best in the world.
Whatever your take is on who will be the best at the end of this event, or which team is the most exciting in the wake of the early exchanges, the FIFA World Cup showcases soccer at its very best. This is the event that inspires generations, creates legends and elevates players to dizzying heights.
And when all things are said and done, this is the very same game that continues to attract millions of followers, in every corner of the planet.
Official stats suggest 1.5 billion viewers watched the 2022 final between Argentina and France, making it one of the most watched sporting events in history.
We read that FIFA believes the 2026 event will engage about 6 billion people across multiple platforms.
Now that is huge! That is the power of the FIFA World Cup.
In saying that, we again, look up to the powers that be, to ask the tough question!
When will Fiji fans get to watch the Bula Boys in action at this, the pinnacle of soccer?
When will we be able to cheer on the Bula Boys against the giants of the sport?
Surely we have had decades to develop pathways, strengthen structures and prepare for the challenge. We have benefited from FIFA support, invested in facilities and seen the emergence of talented young players capable of making their mark.
We need a clear and credible roadmap.
And surely, there are many examples of teams participating at the 2026 event that we can see as inspiration for us.
Surely, fans want to know what the long-term plan is.
Players want opportunities, meaningful competition and a pathway that rewards talent and commitment. From grassroots soccer to district competitions and the national team, we say every level must be aligned toward a common goal.
The World Cup should be an ambition for us all. We say the challenge for those who govern the game here is to turn that ambition into reality.
Otherwise, we will continue to do what we are now doing.
We will be watching the big boys play the sport we love, and rue our misfortune, that we are still unable to put a leg in the doorway to the next FIFA World Cup.
