$3.8m for FIJI Water Flying Fijians
Fiji Rugby Union’s securing the $ 3.8 million sponsorship for the 2023 World Cup campaign confirms that the national side will now be known as the FIJI Water Flying Fijians.
The deal builds on previous support FIJI Water has provided for the Flying Fijians when it was a supporting sponsor of the team in the 2020 Autumn Nations Cup. Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka during the announcement at the Tanoa Plaza Suva yesterday alluded to how followers, a few weeks ago questioned his going to the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua change room after their 38-28victory against the Rebels at the HFC Bank Stadium.
“There were a lot of negative comments made about my going in the changing room before the players had enough time to speak with the fans and wave to them and sign autographs,” Rabuka said.
“Well this was what I went to the changing room for; I went to ask Sale (Sorovaki, acting Fiji Rugby chief executive officer).
“How much money you (FRU) need for the World Cup? A lot of negative comments came up that afternoon and the following few weeks.
“Today (yesterday) I’m here to announce that the Flying Fijians has received a massive boost ahead of the upcoming rugby World Cup.” Sorovaki said: “FIJI Water has been one of our most loyal and important partners for many years and today we have further strengthened our relationship. “This significant support will put our team in an even better position to win in France.” Representing the parent company, The Wonderful Company was FIJI Water executive vice-president Craig Cooper who in the past days has been meeting with FRU acting chairman Daniel Whiipy, Sorovaki and marketing manager Avnil Pratap.
“We take great pride in our association with the Flying Fijians and we are excited to expand our support for the team as they prepare for this year’s World Cup along with our employees and employees of our sister companies NPDL, William & Goslings and our owners,” Cooper said.
“We look forward to celebrating a strong performance at the World Cup.”
FIJI Water logo will now appear on the Flying Fijinas’ kit and jersey during the Pacific Cup where they face Tonga, Samoa and Japan in two test matches; and also against France and England ahead of the World Cup.