SUVA, Fiji, 9 October 2026 — The tournament designed to recognize the best football players in Fiji has sparked serious controversy due to drug test outcomes that raise new questions about players’ health, discipline, and sports in the country. Mohammad Yusuf, the chief executive officer of the Fiji Football Association, has reported on the news that there have been 24 instances of positive results of drug tests carried out during the first three days of the FMF Inter-District Championship. Moreover, a 17-year-old’s positive result raised concerns about drug use among younger players. The chief executive officer indicated that it was alarming and that “football must be clean.”
The numbers have been released following random testing performed throughout the tournament and its three divisions. A report by RNZ Pacific published on October 9 indicates that 162 tests were conducted over 3 days, with 20 drug-related positive results, as well as two alcohol-related results. Another update released by the Fiji FA that same day revealed that there were 24 positive results. Although the reports differ in numbers, they both indicate the existence of a serious problem for authorities in charge of football.
This problem is not new. In 2024, RNZ Pacific reported that during the Inter-District Championship in Lautoka, 21 players failed a drugs test. Since then, the Fiji FA has been carrying out tests, but the issue arises again and again during major tournaments.
Another wave of concerns arose in June 2026 during the BiC Fiji FACT tournament. According to FBC News, 72 players were tested for drugs, and four of them tested positive. Out of those four, three were found to be in possession of marijuana and one of methamphetamine. It is known that three tests involved repeat offenders, and discussions on suspension ranging from 1 to 3 years have been initiated during that time.
Yusuf has warned sportsmen against putting their football futures in jeopardy by using drugs, while at the same time calling on coaches and relevant authorities to pay more attention to the welfare of players. In parallel, he pointed out that the Fiji Football Association has already discussed the situation with the heads of the organization of Sport Against Drugs and noted that the agency has collaborated with police representatives, which indicates that Fiji is addressing the problem on different levels.
Therefore, the punishment of those players who tested positive has to give them a chance to explain themselves in court. At the same time, the necessity to carry out numerous tests becomes a burden placed on clubs and governing bodies.
The problem that Fiji football is facing does not only involve bans of players but also whether the system will save the talents of youngsters and let their generation be remembered for their sports achievements instead of the scandals.
