Fiji has previously participated in 32 World Cup matches, winning 11 games,
resulting in a victory ratio of 34%. They have defeated tier-one nations like Wales,
Australia, and Argentina at the tournament, though they’ve yet to beat New
Zealand, South Africa, or Ireland. With about 80,000 registered players, rugby is
the main sport in Fiji, and their World Cup performances reflect their passion and
potential. The Flying Fijians’ flair, resilience, and ability to challenge rugby’s giants
make them a fan favourite.
The Flying Fijians, Fiji’s national rugby union team, have a storied history in the
Rugby World Cup, marked by thrilling performances and a flair for exciting,
attacking rugby. Known for their skilful and acrobatic style of play, they’ve made an
impact on the global stage despite being a small Pacific Island nation with a
population of around 950,000.
Here’s an overview of the Flying Fijians Rugby World Cup journey:
Fiji has competed in nearly every Rugby World Cup since their debut in 1987,
missing only the 1995 tournament due to qualification challenges. Their best
performances came in 1987, 2007, and 2023, when they reached the quarterfinals.
In 1987, despite a military coup threatening their participation, they beat Argentina
28-9 in their first match and advanced to face France in the quarterfinals, losing 31-
In 2007, a dramatic 38-34 win over Wales, sealed by prop Graham Dewes’ try,
sent them to the quarterfinals, where South Africa ended their run. During the 2023
tournament, the Flying Fijians defeated Australia 22-15—their first World Cup win
over the Wallabies and their first victory against them since 1954—before losing
narrowly to England 30-24 in the quarterfinals.
The 2023 Rugby World Cup in France was particularly notable. Placed in Pool C
with Wales, Australia, Georgia, and Portugal, Fiji started with a controversial 32-26
loss to Wales, marred by refereeing disputes. Their historic win over Australia
followed, boosting their campaign. They beat Georgia 17-12 but fell 24-23 to
Portugal in a thrilling upset, though they still advanced to the quarterfinals with two
wins from four pool matches. This performance equaled their best-ever finishes and
showcased their growing competitiveness, fuelled by talents like Josua Tuisova,
Semi Radradra, and captain Waisea Nayacalevu, alongside the influence of the
Fijian Drua’s Super Rugby participation.
Their 2023 campaign, ending on October 15 with that close England loss, left them
with global respect and optimism for the future, with eyes now on the 2027 Rugby
World Cup in Australia.