The Fiji Football Association (Fiji FA) has clarified that a viral video showing a Ba FC player spreading a “substance” on the field before the BiC Fiji FACT 2026 final did not breach the Laws of the Game or FIFA regulations.
The clarification follows widespread discussion on social media after footage of the player performing the pre-match ritual at Subrail Park in Labasa was shared online.
Fiji FA chief executive officer Mohammed Yusuf said the association reviewed the incident and found no violation of the IFAB Laws of the Game or FIFA regulations.
“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 said 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.”
Yusuf said such practices are common in football and are acceptable as long as 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.
“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 also urged football fans to avoid speculation and rely on verified information when discussing the sport.
“Social media can often lead to misinformation. We encourage supporters to seek the facts before making assumptions. In this case, there has been no breach of the Laws of the Game or FIFA regulations.”
