McDonald’s Fiji backs Nadi rugby for 2026 season
Although he did not disclose the value of the sponsorship, McElrath said it was the largest investment McDonald’s had made to the NRU.
Tuesday 28 July 2026 | 10:00
McDonald’s Fiji managing director Marc McElrath (left) with Nadi Rugby Union president Ponijese Lou during the presentation in Nadi on July 27, 2026.
Photo: Waisea Nasokia
McDonald’s Fiji has reaffirmed their commitment to grassroots rugby by becoming the naming rights sponsor of the Nadi Rugby Union (NRU) for the 2026 season.
Managing director Marc McElrath during the signing of the MOU (Memorandum of Understanding) in Nadi yesterday said the sponsorship reflected the company’s long-standing connection with Nadi, where McDonald’s Fiji first opened.
“We’ve always wanted to give back to the community,” he said.
Related stories
“For us, sponsorships like this create opportunities for players to showcase their talent.”
The sponsorship covers the Nadi men’s, women’s and Under-20 rugby teams.
McElrath said investing in all three programmes highlighted McDonald’s commitment to developing rugby at every level.
“The women’s game continues to grow, as we saw over the weekend with the Fijian Drua women’s team, and the Under-20 programme is another important area of development,” he said.
“It’s an important pathway into the Skipper Cup and helps young players progress through the ranks.”
Although he did not disclose the value of the sponsorship, McElrath said it was the largest investment McDonald’s had made to the NRU.
“It’s a significant investment for us.”
McElrath said McDonald’s had been encouraged by the NRU progress over the past two years.
“We’ve seen a lot of growth, particularly in administration and coaching. Nadi struggled in those areas in the past, but it’s good to see the union developing both on and off the field.”
McElrath also acknowledged the Fiji Rugby Union’s efforts in strengthening governance among member unions.
“That’s a credit to Fiji Rugby Union as well. Under the leadership of chairman John Sanday, they’ve been strong in ensuring unions comply with administrative requirements.”
NRU president Ponijese Lou thanked McDonald’s for continuing their support.
He said last season had laid the foundation for NRU’s future as it prepares to compete in Fiji Rugby’s top tier.
NRU vice-president Jeff Tamata said the sponsorship aligned with NRU’s four-year strategic plan.
Nadi hosts Kadavu in round one of the Skipper Cup at King Charles Park on Saturday
