Despite the Fiji Rugby Union’s request for FIJI Water Flying Fijians head coach Simon Raiwalui to stay on after December 31, the former lock has insisted on sticking to his plans.
Fiji Rugby Football Union Trust Board interim chairman Peter Mazey confirmed that before the 30-24 Rugby World Cup quarter-final loss to England, Raiwalui had informed them via email he would not stay on after his contract ended at the end of the year.
Mazey said Raiwalui made the decision because he wanted to spend time with his family, however, he added they would discuss the matter further once the team arrived tonight.
He said they had requested him to reconsider but the 49-year-old remained firm on his decision.
On Tuesday night, Raiwalui took to social media to confirm that he would step away from the position at the end of this year.
“I guess it is time to make it official, specifically what the next cycle will look like for Fiji rugby,” Raiwalui said on social media.
“I will not be seeking an extension of employment with FRU past 31 December.
“Thanks again to the players, staff, and all the supporters, it has been quite a ride.”
During his short tenure, Raiwalui propelled Fiji to unprecedented heights which started with their Pacific Nations Cup victory in July.
He elevated Fiji to newer heights starting with the Pacific Nations Cup victory in July.
The Flying Fijians went on to clinch the historic Test match triumph against England at Twickenham and a memorable RWC quarter-final spot, marked by their first win over Australia in nearly seven decades.
Raiwalui’s side came close to their first RWC cup semi-final but fell short as England crushed their dreams in Marseille, France on Monday.
Following the quarter-final loss, an emotional Raiwalui said in a press conference that they had started a new legacy for Fiji, emphasising the importance of reconnecting with their people.
The Flying Fijians team will arrive at the Nadi International Airport at 6.55pm today.