Babasiga Lions roar through history

The return of the BiC Fiji FACT to Subrail Park this year evokes memories of the Extra Supermarket Labasa FC's proud football history. Known as the Babasiga Lions, the club is synonymous with the Fiji FACT, boasting a legacy of memorable campaigns and tournament triumphs.

Labasa enters the 2026 edition as one of the competition's most decorated sides, having secured five Fiji FACT titles and nine runner-up finishes. Their inaugural victory came in 1992 at home, defeating Nadroga 1-0. This remains one of the most celebrated achievements in the district's football history and the last time Labasa won the tournament on home soil.

The Babasiga Lions added another title in 1997 by sharing the championship with Ba after a scoreless final. They further cemented their status in 1999 with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Lautoka. After a significant 16-year wait, Labasa returned to the summit in 2015, defeating Rewa 2-0 in Nadi, sparking celebrations across the Northern Division. Their most recent triumph was in 2025, again overcoming Rewa in a dramatic final decided by a penalty shootout.

Despite their successes, Labasa has experienced heartbreak, finishing as runner-up nine times against formidable opponents like Ba, Suva, Rewa, and Nadroga. Nevertheless, the Babasiga Lions remain one of Fiji football's most respected and feared teams, known for their loyal supporters, attacking style, and ability to perform on the big stage.

As the 2026 BiC Fiji FACT returns to Subrail Park, Labasa will once again carry the hopes of the North, determined to add another chapter to their remarkable tournament legacy. The club's rich history has produced numerous national representatives and unforgettable performances, shaping the legacy of one of Fiji's premier football competitions.