Malolo's Concerns over Finals Revenue and Transparency
The Malolo Rugby Union, the reigning Skipper Cup champions, has raised significant concerns regarding the management of gate revenue from the quarterfinals, semifinals, and grand final of this year's tournament. The union is demanding greater transparency from both the Fiji Sports Council and the Fiji Rugby Union.
FBC Sports has reached out to both organizations for comment and is awaiting their responses.
In a detailed statement, Malolo expressed discrepancies between the figures released by the Fiji Sports Council and their own estimates of crowd numbers at the 2025 Skipper Cup final. The council reported an attendance of approximately 11,000, with ticket prices set at 20 dollars. Based on these numbers, Malolo estimated a revenue of around 220,000 dollars. However, the council's declared total takings were just over 59,000 dollars, which Malolo found concerning.
The union also pointed out that both finalists were entitled to a share of the takings, and the amounts received did not align with the reported attendance figures. Malolo highlighted deductions made from Naitasiri Seniors, who received 4,612.60 dollars but had 1,383.78 dollars withheld and redirected to the Naitasiri Under 20 team, raising questions about the criteria for such deductions.
Furthermore, Malolo questioned the consistency of figures from the semifinals, where more than 9,000 spectators were reported to have attended, yet the Fiji Sports Council's takings were just over 56,000 dollars. This discrepancy was particularly notable when compared to the final, which Malolo claimed had a larger crowd, yet resulted in only slightly more revenue.
The union expressed disappointment in the support provided to domestic elite players, and a photograph shared by a Vatukoula official online further fueled their concerns about match-day operations. While FBC Sports has not independently verified the image, it underscores the union's worries.
Additionally, Malolo revealed that their prize money of 20,000 dollars was reduced to just over 16,000 dollars due to compliance fines, and the team received only 120 dollars for meal allowances after the grand final, which they were told to use for purchasing kava. These financial details have sparked further scrutiny.
In conclusion, Malolo emphasized the need for stronger governance, clearer accountability, and higher administrative standards within the sport. The union's concerns have prompted FBC Sports to await responses from both the Fiji Rugby Union and the Fiji Sports Council, highlighting the importance of transparency and fair practices in sporting events.
