Fijian rugby sevens icon Jerry Tuwai has been appointed as the Tournament Ambassador for the upcoming 2026 McDonald’s Coral Coast 7s, scheduled to take place from January 15–17, 2026, at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka. Tuwai, a two-time Olympic gold medallist, will not only fulfill his ambassadorial duties but will also be inducted into the esteemed Rugby Town Walk of Fame, an accolade that acknowledges his significant contributions to the sport.
In an exciting development, Tuwai will lace up his boots once again to play, assuming the role of captain for the McDonald’s Mike Friday Select 7s team. This historic return to the field has sparked considerable anticipation among fans, especially since Tuwai embodies the values of passion, humility, and exceptional talent that the Coral Coast 7s seeks to promote.
Tournament Founding Chairman Jay Whyte expressed that selecting Tuwai as ambassador was a straightforward choice, highlighting how his journey inspires players throughout Fiji and beyond: “Having him as our ambassador and seeing him play again in front of his home fans will be an unforgettable experience for everyone.”
Tuwai himself shared his enthusiasm, stating, “It’s an honour to be named ambassador for such a special tournament, and even more so to be recognised on the Walk of Fame in Sigatoka. The Coral Coast Fiji 7s is special, and it’s where players, young and old, come together to celebrate the true spirit of rugby. I can’t wait to be part of it both on and off the field.”
The McDonald’s Coral Coast 7s remains one of Fiji’s premier rugby sevens festivals, attracting top international teams, world-class athletes, and thousands of fans annually. The 2026 edition is anticipated to be especially exciting, with Tuwai leading as both a player and ambassador for the tournament.
As Tuwai joins a lineup that already includes distinguished players and teams from across the globe, the Coral Coast 7s continues to highlight not only Fiji’s rich rugby culture but also the growing international appeal of the sport. This blend of local pride and global talent promises a vibrant and thrilling atmosphere, making the upcoming event a highly anticipated spectacle for rugby enthusiasts around the world.