Ajay Ballu, a notable figure in Fiji’s sports administration, has been appointed as the Chef de Mission for Team Fiji for the upcoming Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games and the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games. This significant appointment reflects his lifelong dedication to sports in Fiji, having held various prestigious roles, including athlete, administrator, and manager, as well as being a board member of the Fiji Association of Sports and National Olympic Committee (FASANOC) since his election in 2025.
Ballu’s journey in sports began in 1984 when he represented Fiji as a young soccer player at the U16 level and later took up archery, competing at both national and international standards. Over the years, his commitment and passion for sports have propelled him into numerous leadership positions, significantly impacting sports administration in Fiji. He served as the Secretary General of World Archery Fiji and acted as a National Judge for various archery competitions.
His broad involvement spans grassroots development, elite athlete management, and international representation. Throughout his career, Ballu has played a pivotal role in major international events. He was Section Manager at the 2011 Pacific Games in New Caledonia, General Manager for Team Fiji during the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games and the 2019 Pacific Games in Samoa, and served as Chef de Mission for the 2022 Pacific Mini Games in Saipan and the 2023 Pacific Games in Honiara. Furthermore, he was the Provisional General Manager for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, gaining extensive knowledge regarding the logistical, technical, and welfare needs of large delegations of athletes and officials.
As the Chef de Mission, Ballu has always highlighted the importance of team unity, athlete welfare, and performance excellence. He emphasizes that achievements at major competitions stem from meticulous behind-the-scenes preparation, often requiring years of hard work. His leadership approach blends professionalism with empathy, ensuring athletes receive the necessary support they need both on and off the field.
Ballu’s role as leader for Team Fiji at the 2026 events carries immense significance. The Glasgow Commonwealth Games will present Fiji’s athletes with a broad platform, while the Youth Olympic Games in Dakar will serve to showcase the nation’s emerging talents. His opportunity to oversee both elite competitors and rising stars underscores FASANOC’s faith in his ability to foster a balance between achieving performance goals and providing mentorship.
Beyond his responsibilities with Team Fiji, Ballu has made a considerable impact within the archery community. His involvement has been invaluable to the sport’s development at the local level, and he has represented Fiji at various international Oceania and World Archery events. In 2023, he was one of only twelve judges selected for the World Oceania Archery Championships in Adelaide, where he officiated gold medal matches—a critical part of the qualifying events for the Paris 2024 Olympics. His election to the FASANOC Board in 2025 has further consolidated his role as a key decision-maker in Fiji’s sports landscape, ensuring that athlete welfare and governance remain paramount in FASANOC’s mission.
Ajay Nand Ballu embodies the core values of Excellence, Respect, Integrity, and Commitment championed by FASANOC. From his early experiences as a youth athlete to his influential leadership as a board member and Chef de Mission, his career showcases an unwavering commitment to sports and to Fiji. As he prepares to lead Team Fiji into the Commonwealth and Youth Olympic Games in 2026, his vision and extensive experience are anticipated to inspire athletes, driving Fiji toward even greater achievements on the global stage. Vinaka Ajay Ballu for your steadfast service, leadership, and dedication to Team Fiji.