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Message from Fiji FA President Rajesh Patel

On behalf of the Fiji Football Association, I extend my warmest greetings to everyone as we prepare for the 2025 FMF Inter-District Championship (IDC), proudly hosted at 4R Stadium and Govind Park in Ba from October 7–12.

The FMF IDC is one of the most prestigious and historic tournaments in Fiji’s sporting calendar, and this year carries special significance as the competition returns to Ba after nine long years. Ba is widely regarded as the heartland of Fijian football—a place where passion for the game runs deep, where countless memories have been created, and where our footballing identity has been shaped. It is only fitting that Ba once again plays host to the nation’s premier football event, especially as the town proudly celebrates Ba FA’s 90th year of existence with a week-long Men-in-Black Carnival.

On this occasion, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Ba Football Association for reaching this remarkable milestone. The anniversary festivities, coupled with the return of the IDC, truly make 2025 a year of pride, unity, and celebration for the people of Ba and the wider football fraternity.

This year’s IDC will feature 18 participating teams, after Nadogo FC and Northland FC were disqualified for failing to run their Regional Club League as per Fiji FA regulations. The competition will be structured as follows:

  • Super Premier Division – The top 8 teams from the Extra Premier League will battle for supremacy in Fiji’s most competitive tier.
  • Premier Division – 4 teams will contest in a round-robin format to determine the division champion.
  • Senior Division – 6 teams will take part, showcasing raw talent and community pride.

Football in Fiji has experienced remarkable growth and development across all levels and among both genders.

  • Our Fiji U-17 men’s team created history by qualifying for their first-ever FIFA U-17 World Cup this year and securing another place for next year’s tournament.
  • Our Fiji U-20 Women’s team proudly represented the nation at the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, highlighting the rapid progress of women’s football.

These achievements are the result of long-term planning and investment in grassroots programmes, youth academies, and pathways that provide opportunities for both boys and girls to excel.

We also acknowledge that football, like any sport, attracts critics. Constructive views help us grow, but it is important to recognise the undeniable progress Fiji Football has made.

  • Fiji FA now operates three academies in the South, West, and North.
  • A state-of-the-art, multi-million-dollar football complex is being developed in Lomolomo, Lautoka, which will serve as a hub for elite training and development.

These are tangible steps that ensure the future of Fijian football is strong and sustainable.

The IDC continues to be the pinnacle of our domestic football calendar—a stage where our finest talents compete, inspire, and unite communities.

  • Ticket prices remain very reasonable to ensure families and communities can enjoy the excitement together.
  • One dollar from every ticket sold will be donated to WOWS Kids Fiji, allowing the IDC spirit to support a noble cause beyond football.
  • For fans abroad and those unable to attend, Mai TV will provide pay-per-view live streaming, ensuring the action reaches every Fijian home worldwide.

I extend my deepest gratitude to FMF Foods Ltd for their unwavering support as our major partner, and to the Ba Town Council for their immense efforts in hosting this year’s tournament. Their dedication ensures that players, officials, and spectators will enjoy a world-class football event.

To our teams, coaches, referees, volunteers, and the thousands of passionate fans—Vinaka Vakalevu for your continued support and belief in the growth of football.

As we celebrate the return of the IDC to Ba, let us do so with pride, unity, and true sportsmanship.

I wish all participating teams the very best and look forward to another thrilling chapter in the proud history of the IDC.

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