Fijian football referee Torika Delai has made history by becoming the second referee from her country to officiate at a FIFA World Cup event. The 32-year-old played a pivotal role in the Group C match between Norway and Ecuador at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup held in Morocco 2025, where Ecuador triumphed 2-0. This significant achievement marks Delai’s debut on the global stage and is considered a proud moment for Fiji as well as the Oceania region.
With her appointment, Delai joins the ranks of trailblazers like Finau Vulivuli, who was the first Fijian to officiate at multiple FIFA World Cups. In her match, Delai led a team comprising assistant referees Allys Clipsham from New Zealand and Natalia Lumukana from the Solomon Islands, showcasing FIFA’s commitment to diversity and regional representation in women’s football.
Rajesh Patel, President of the Fiji Football Association (Fiji FA), praised Delai’s selection as a culmination of hard work and determination. He expressed, “Torika’s appointment is a moment of great pride for Fiji. It reflects her years of commitment and perseverance. Her achievement will inspire many young Fijians, especially women, to believe they too can excel in this sport.”
Fiji FA Referees Director Avinesh Narayan commended Delai’s composure and control during the match, stating, “Torika showed great confidence throughout the game. She has set a new benchmark for Fijian referees and proven we can perform with distinction on the global stage.” Notably, Delai was the only referee from the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) appointed to this prestigious tournament, underscoring her consistency, professionalism, and the success achieved through the Fiji FA’s referee development programs.
Her historic debut not only celebrates individual accomplishment but also signifies a defining moment for Fijian football, highlighting the nation’s expanding influence in the global game. As women’s representation in sports continues to grow, Delai stands as an empowering role model, illuminating possibilities for aspiring female referees and contributing to the optimism surrounding the future of women’s roles in sports officiating.