The official launch of the 2026 Classic Buses Limited FANCA Nations World Cup has taken place, heralding one of the most significant sporting events on the Islamic community calendar. With the anticipation of over 1,000 attendees from five nations, this tournament is set for an exciting week-long celebration dedicated to sport, culture, and community spirit.
Scheduled from August 23rd to 30th, matches will be held at King Charles Park in Nadi and the Nadi Muslim College Events and Sports Centre. The tournament will feature soccer, netball, and volleyball competitions, offering events for both men and women across various age categories, including Legends, Masters, Veterans, and youth divisions. Soccer contests will take place at King Charles Park, while netball and volleyball will be hosted at Nadi Muslim College.
Javed Ahmed, President of the Fiji Muslim Sports Association, emphasized that this tournament transcends mere athletic competition. It serves as a vital opportunity for the Fijian diaspora to reconnect with friends, family, and community members. Ahmed stated, “The Nations World Cup is a unique opportunity for all our brothers, all our sisters who have migrated overseas — to Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and America — for a better life. It gives them a chance to come back and reconnect with their families and friends here in Fiji.”
The event also aims to have a significant community impact, incorporating charitable initiatives alongside the celebrations. Ahmed expressed the commitment to create a lasting impact beyond the sporting events. A partnership with the Haya Group will promote unity and positive community engagement through initiatives like the Dawa and Outreach Initiative. Additionally, a portion of the gate revenues will fund charitable projects, underscoring the tradition of giving back that is integral to the FANCA Nations World Cup.
The tournament is designed to be family-friendly, featuring festive activities that invite participation from children, thus promising a lively week of sports and community engagement for all visitors. The 2026 FANCA Nations World Cup is poised to be the largest and most inclusive event of its kind, merging competitive sports with cultural celebrations and promoting community unity, ensuring a memorable experience for attendees.