IN a bold move to revitalize the sporting landscape, the Lautoka City Council CEO, Anees Khan, has unveiled ambitious plans for the iconic Churchill Park, sparking both excitement and speculation in the Fijian sports community.
Churchill Park, the historical crucible of Fijian sporting passion, has long been the stage for thrilling matches and epic showdowns.
However, in recent times, whispers of discontent have echoed through its corridors.
Critics argue that its overall capacity is insufficient, with a mere 5000 actual seats out of a 13,500 capacity rest in embankment or standing.
The venue lacks modern amenities, with outdated dressing rooms, subpar floodlights, and a conspicuous absence of a permanent video replay screen.
Addressing these concerns head-on, Khan presented a visionary plan to Times Sport.
The proposal involves selling Naming Rights to Churchill Park, a strategic move to secure funds for a much-needed facelift.
The potential improvements, including enhanced seating, international-standard floodlights, and state-of-the-art facilities, aim to transform Churchill Park into a sports arena worthy of global recognition.
“Council does not have enough funds to undertake the necessary improvements, hence this proposal to sell naming rights to raise funds,” Khan said.
The Naming Rights dilemma
The concept of selling Naming Rights is not new in Fiji, as Khan pointed out, citing successful examples like the National Stadium. However, a cloud of uncertainty looms over whether the cherished name ‘Churchill Park’ will be replaced.
Khan clarified that while the venue is expected to be renamed, the sale of Naming Rights will not affect the council’s ownership of this sporting landmark.
“The concept of naming rights is not new to Fiji. Fiji Sports Council has sold naming rights to four of its venues already. ANZ Bank held naming rights of the National Stadium for nine years until 2022. HFC Bank has acquired naming rights for the next three years.
“Recently the Fiji Sports Council has repaired the pixelated video screen and is currently replacing sections of the athletic track, drawing on its recurrent revenues from Naming Rights sponsorship and billboard advertising. “Damodar Aquatic Centre, Vodafone Arena and FMF Gymnasium and other examples.
“Hence, yes, Churchill Park is expected to be renamed,” Khan added.
The unveiling of potential suitors
As questions about the tender process flew, Khan revealed that the council is yet to advertise the tender. However, speculation is already rife about potential contenders eager to stamp their mark on Fijian sports history.
The process involves a meticulous journey, from preparing an information pack for prospective sponsors to negotiating with the preferred tenderer, with the goal of announcing the successful party by February 2024.
“We have only carried out public consultation so next step is to prepare an information pack for prospective sponsors, outlining benefits and commercial terms. Advertise seeking expressions of interest within say 7 – 21 days.
“Provide detailed information pack to pre-qualified parties, inviting submissions by tender. Open tenders and evaluate in accordance with government procurement guidelines, negotiate with preferred tenderer, execute binding contracts.
“Publicly announce successful party and deliver benefits in time for the 2024 season. Estimated to be in or around February 2024,” Khan elaborated to Times Sport.
A vision for the future
The proposed changes signify more than a mere renovation; they represent a vision for the future of Fijian sports. With the potential to host NRL matches, Rugby Test matches, national and regional athletics competitions, and even a leg of the HSBC 7s, Churchill Park is poised to reclaim its status as a premier sporting venue in the Pacific.
As the Fijian sports fraternity awaits the unfolding of this transformative journey, one thing is certain – the rebirth of Churchill Park promises to be a compelling chapter in the rich tapestry of Fijian sports history, a story of resilience, innovation, and a commitment to excellence that echoes the spirit of the island nation itself.
