Six Countries Want To Host 2031 Games
“It is very important as we heard the Prime Minister’s interest for a bid prior to this Game. We’ve met with the Minister of Sports.”
Monday 27 November 2023 | 10:40
Fiji fans continue to support the Team Fiji men's and women's rugby sevens teams during the semifinals at the Pacific Games in Honiara, Solomon Islands. Photo: Sereana Salalo
Tough challenge ahead for Fiji’s bid to host the 2031 Pacific Games.
In yesterday’s Pacific Games Council meeting it was confirmed that five other Pacific countries have expressed their interest to host the 2031 Games.
Apart from Fiji, the other countries are Papua New Guinea, Guam, American Samoa, Tonga and Vanuatu.
FASANOC president Makarita Lenoa confirmed this to SUNsports after the Council meeting at the Pacific Grand Hotel in Honiara.
The process is now open where the Pacific Games Council will then present a letter and processes involved to the countries that want to host the Games.
The country’s bid will be presented in next year’s Council’s annual general meeting.
She said for Fiji they would have to sit with Government and the Opposition to discuss about the bid.
“We have to submit the bid, which is not too long. It is important that we have the support from the government of the day.
“It is very important as we heard the Prime Minister’s interest for a bid prior to this Game. We’ve met with the Minister of Sports.”
Fiji has hosted the 1963, 1979 and 2003 Games.
“The sporting landscapes have changed a lot, the requirements and facilities. We need to work in partnership to determine what we currently have and what we have to put in place to be able to present the bid that is honest. It is something Fiji can afford to bid for.”
Lenoa said the hosting of the Games is a big boost for sports tourism at the same time presenting Fiji as a great host.
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