The Fiji Bitter 2025-2026 sevens series season was launched this week at Paradise Beverages in Walu Bay, highlighting the company’s dedication to enhancing the rugby landscape in Fiji. Dwain Qalovaki, Head of Public Affairs, Communications, and Sustainability at Paradise Beverages, noted that this tournament serves as more than just a series of matches; it is a vital developmental pathway for talented young men and women, granting them essential exposure to coaches and scouts.
Qalovaki reflected on how a modest idea has transformed into a nationwide celebration of talent and community spirit over the years. This season marks a milestone, celebrating 49 years of support for Fijian rugby by Fiji Bitter, the beer brand under Paradise Beverages.
Maxine Edwards, the Fiji Bitter Brand Manager, highlighted that the series embodies the rich culture, pride, and values that define the Fijian people. The season will feature six tournaments, starting with the Lomaiviti event in November, followed by Wairiki in December, Labasa in January, Savusavu in February, Nawaka, and concluding with the Marist 7s in Suva in March.
This initiative builds on the success of the previous 2024-2025 season, during which Paradise Beverages invested over $300,000 in grassroots rugby support. The foundation laid by those seasons has allowed many aspiring athletes to thrive, with numerous participants earning opportunities to represent Fiji on national and international stages, including the Fiji Sevens team and the Fijian Drua franchise. The commitment from organizing bodies and sponsors extends beyond high-level competitions, emphasizing community unity and nurturing a supportive environment for players and fans alike.
As the 2025-2026 season progresses, anticipation builds for these events that promise not only exhilarating rugby action but also the emergence of the next generation of Fijian rugby stars, further enriching the cultural heritage synonymous with sports in Fiji.