Ajay Ballu, one of Fiji’s most dedicated sports administrators, has been appointed Chef de Mission for Team Fiji to the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games and the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games.
His appointment reflects decades of service to sport in Fiji as an athlete, administrator, section manager, general manager and most recently as a FASANOC board member elected in 2025.
Ajay Ballu’s journey in sport began as a youth athlete, representing Fiji in soccer at the U16 level in 1984 and later competing in archery at national and international events.
His passion for sport quickly evolved into leadership roles, where he became a driving force in sports administration.
Ballu has served as Secretary General of World Archery Fiji, while also officiating as a National Judge (Referee) for archery competitions.
His involvement has spanned grassroots development, elite athlete management and international representation.
Ballu’s leadership has been particularly visible through his long association with Team Fiji.
He has held multiple roles across major international competitions:
• Section Manager at the 2011 Pacific Games in New Caledonia.
• General Manager for Team Fiji at the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games and the 2019 Pacific Games in Samoa.
• Chef de Mission for the 2022 Pacific Mini Games in Saipan and the 2023 Pacific Games in Honiara.
• Provisional General Manager for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.
These experiences have given him a deep understanding of the logistical, technical and welfare responsibilities required to lead large contingents of athletes and officials.
As Chef de Mission, Ballu has consistently emphasized team unity, athlete welfare and performance excellence.
In interviews, he has highlighted the importance of behind-the-scenes preparation, noting that success at major games is the culmination of months, sometimes years of planning.
His leadership style blends professionalism with empathy, ensuring athletes feel supported both on and off the field.
Ballu’s appointment to lead Team Fiji in 2026 is particularly significant.
The Glasgow Commonwealth Games will showcase Fiji’s athletes on one of the largest multi-sport stages, while the Youth Olympic Games in Dakar will provide a platform for Fiji’s emerging talent.
His dual role demonstrates FASANOC’s confidence in his ability to manage both seasoned athletes and rising stars, balancing performance goals with mentorship.
Contributions Beyond Team Fiji
Ballu’s influence extends beyond his Chef de Mission duties. He has been a long-serving executive in archery, helping grow the sport locally and representing Fiji at Oceania and World Archery events.
In 2023, he was selected as one of 12 judges for the World Oceania Archery Championships in Adelaide, where he officiated gold medal matches in a qualifying event for the Paris 2024 Olympics.
In 2025, Ballu’s election to the FASANOC Board further cemented his role as a key decision-maker in Fiji’s sporting landscape.
His presence on the board ensures that athlete welfare, governance and international representation remain central to FASANOC’s mission.
His track record demonstrates an ability to manage large delegations, such as the 490-member team he led to the 2023 Pacific Games in Honiara, while maintaining focus on individual athlete needs.
Ajay Nand Ballu embodies the values of Excellence, Respect, Integrity and Commitment that FASANOC champions.
From his early days as a youth athlete to his current role as a board member and Chef de Mission, his career reflects a lifelong dedication to sport and to Fiji.
As he leads Team Fiji into the Commonwealth and Youth Olympic Games in 2026, his vision and experience will be instrumental in inspiring athletes and ensuring Fiji continues to shine on the world stage.
Vinaka Ajay Ballu for your service, leadership and commitment to Team Fiji.
