Fijian Drua funding under Finance Ministry

The Swire Shipping Fijian Drua rugby franchise will continue to receive financial backing from the Fijian government, ensuring its stability as World Rugby's annual $1.5 million contribution concludes next Tuesday. This government assistance will be managed through the Ministry of Finance.

Minister for Youth and Sports Jese Saukuru acknowledged the franchise's ongoing financial challenges, emphasizing the government's commitment to its support. "The Drua needs funding. The Drua is also struggling financially, so they need that funding," Saukuru stated. He clarified that the government's contribution is part of a broader shared responsibility among the club's stakeholders, assuring that other shareholders remain involved.

Saukuru also specified that the Ministry of Youth and Sports will not directly disburse funds to the franchise. Meanwhile, Fijian Drua CEO Jeff Miller expressed confidence in the club's preparedness for the end of World Rugby's financial support. Miller indicated that long-term sustainability planning is well underway, with the club, jointly owned by the Fijian Government and the Fiji Rugby Union, actively developing new initiatives to secure its financial future within the Super Rugby Pacific competition.

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The Drua needs funding. The Drua is also struggling financially, so they need that funding.