The Fiji Rugby Union completed its investigation into claims that the Fiji Airways Fiji men’s 7s team slept outside the Sydney Airport terminal corridor and ruled the information on social media inaccurate and misleading.
FRU investigation into this issue commenced upon receipt of a letter on December 11, 2023, to the Prime Minister from the Speaker of Parliament.
The letter outlined concerns that the Fiji 7s team slept outside the Sydney Airport terminal corridor until 2.30am when the Airport Terminal re-opened.
After a thorough investigation and consultation with the team management and players, FRU found that the team’s flight arrangements were made by World Rugby.
Accommodation at Ibis Airport Hotel in Sydney was arranged to provide the players with appropriate rest billet during their transit ensuring their comfort and well-being for the rest of their journey to Dubai.
The FRU in their response to the Minister for Youth & Sports, Jese Saukuru outlined that the team departed Nadi on November 26 at 6pm and arrive in Sydney at 9.40pm.
The airport closed at 11pm and while the players checked in their hotel at Ibis Sydney Airport but to ensure the safety of their equipment and bags, the coach and assistant coach did remain outside the terminal.
Sydney Airport opened at 2.30am the next day, the team arrived at 3am and departed for Dubai in their scheduled 6am flight.
Saukuru relayed Fiji Rugby’s response to Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka who said it was unfortunate that those who raised concerns with the Speaker of Parliament, were not fully aware of the events that occurred.
The FRU Board of Trustees expressed that the welfare of national teams is of paramount importance to Fiji Rugby where the necessary support, respect, and dignity is accorded to them while representing the country on the international stage.
