Fijian football referee Torika Delai has etched her name in history by becoming only the second referee from Fiji to officiate at a FIFA World Cup event. The 32-year-old played a crucial role in the Group C match between Norway and Ecuador during the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup held in Morocco in 2025, where Ecuador secured a 2-0 victory. This landmark achievement represents not just a personal milestone for Delai but also a source of immense pride for Fiji and the wider Oceania region.
With her selection, Delai joins the ranks of groundbreaking individuals like Finau Vulivuli, the first Fijian referee to officiate at multiple FIFA World Cup tournaments. In her officiating duties, Delai led a team that included 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), lauded Delai’s appointment as a testament to her dedication and hard work. He stated, “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.”
Avinesh Narayan, the Fiji FA Referees Director, commended Delai’s composure and control during the match, noting, “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.” Remarkably, Delai was the only referee selected from the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) for this prestigious tournament, underlining her consistency, professionalism, and the success of the Fiji FA’s referee development initiatives.
Delai’s historic debut not only marks a personal triumph but also signals a transformative moment for Fijian football, emphasizing the nation’s growing influence in the global sports arena. As the representation of women in sports continues to expand, Delai emerges as an empowering role model, inspiring aspiring female referees and nurturing optimism for the future of women’s roles in sports officiating.