The Fiji Football Association has clarified that a viral video showing a Ba FC player spreading something on the field before the BiC Fiji FACT 2026 final at Subrail Park in Labasa did not breach the IFAB Laws of the Game or FIFA regulations.
Fiji FA chief executive officer Mohammed Yusuf said the association reviewed the incident following widespread discussion on social media.
“The player was performing a pre-match ritual. After reviewing the matter, we can confirm that no IFAB Law of the Game or FIFA regulation was breached,” Yusuf said.
He explained that footballers around the world observe different personal routines and traditions before matches.
“Some players pray, some make the sign of the cross, some touch the ground before kickoff, while others have their own personal customs.
It is also common to see entire teams gather at the centre of the field before kickoff to pray together, while many teams also hold prayers in the changing room before taking the field.
These are personal expressions of faith and tradition, and they are not prohibited provided they do not affect the safety of participants, damage the field of play, interfere with the conduct of the competition or bring the game into disrepute.”
Yusuf urged supporters to rely on verified information.
To watch Yusuf’s full interview on Fiji FACT, visit The Fiji Times Facebook page and YouTube channel.
