Minister for Youth and Sports Jese Saukuru has acknowledged the opportunities presented by Bula FC’s participation in the Oceania Pro League but stopped short of committing direct Government funding to the professional football franchise.
Speaking in Parliament on Thursday, Saukuru said any discussion about assistance for Bula FC must be guided by sustainability, accountability and sound governance.
“Let me also emphasise this clearly, sustainability must remain at the centre of this conversation,” he said.
The Minister stressed that Government support, if provided, must be matched by strong financial management and long-term planning.
“Government support must be matched by strong financial accountability, transparent governance, proper reporting mechanisms, long-term business planning and community engagement.”
His comments come after calls for direct Government assistance to support Bula FC’s participation in the 2026-2027 Oceania Pro League.
However, Saukuru signalled that sports organisations cannot continue relying heavily on taxpayer funding.
“The era of depending solely on Government grants is no longer sustainable for professional sports today,” he said.
“Clubs must evolve into professionally managed organisations, capable of generating revenue, building fan engagements, developing talents and creating partnerships.”
While reaffirming Government’s support for sports development, Saukuru made it clear that the State’s role is not to run professional clubs.
“Government’s role is to support and enable but not to replace sound management and responsible leadership.”
The Minister also highlighted the broader economic benefits that could arise from professional sport.
He said participation in regional competitions can stimulate tourism, hospitality, broadcasting, retail activity and employment while attracting visitors and media attention.
“In many countries around the world, sport contributes significantly to economic growth. Fiji has the potential to develop a stronger sports economy if we invest wisely and strategically.”
Saukuru described the Oceania Pro League as more than just a football competition, saying it presents significant development opportunities for Fiji.
“The Oceania Pro League, therefore, presents not only a sporting opportunity, but also an economic and developmental opportunity for Fiji.”
Despite not committing financial assistance, the Minister said Government recognises the importance of Bula FC’s involvement in the regional competition.
“We support the principle of strategic assistance that is responsible, transparent, development-focused and sustainable.”
“We want to see Bula FC succeed. We want to see Fijian football grow. We want to see our young people inspired, and we want Fiji to compete confidently on the regional and international stage.”
Saukuru said the success of the initiative would require collaboration from all stakeholders.
“If we approach this strategically, the Oceania Pro League can become more than a professional competition. It can become a catalyst for youth development, economic opportunity and national pride for Fiji.”
