Fiji rugby director fired for saying women's team has a 'gay problem'

A newly appointed board member of the Fiji Rugby Union has been dismissed for making controversial remarks in which she claimed there was a "lesbian problem" within the women's national team. The comments have sparked widespread criticism, with many deeming them harmful and discriminatory. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges in promoting inclusivity within sports.

The Fiji Rugby Union issued a statement on Wednesday announcing the termination of Laijipa Naulivou's appointment as a board member. This decision came after Naulivou stated in an interview that she had suggested replacing the coach and requesting the formation of a committee to select players, rather than allowing "someone with lesbian tendencies to be there picking her people." This underscores the organization's commitment to addressing discriminatory behavior.

Naulivou added, "In my view, that is immoral, and it is not right." She also stated that player attrition and "this lesbian problem" were major challenges facing European rugby teams as well. She further claimed that homosexuality was a "big setback" for the Fijian women's team when they participated in the previous HSBC Sevens tournament. Naulivou was asked to manage the team three weeks before the event and wrote a report advocating for the coach's replacement after the team's poor performance. Her statements have ignited further debate about inclusivity in sports.

The Fiji Women's Rights Movement issued a statement on Tuesday expressing their "shock" at Naulivou's comments. The organization's executive director, Nalini Singh, stated, "The idea that homosexuality is a 'problem' in women's rugby is deeply disturbing and perpetuates harmful stereotypes that have no place in modern sport and society." She added, "Instead of focusing on the sexual orientation of players, do your job and find adequate funding and ensure the welfare of women rugby players so that they do not have to sleep on benches in front of airports or walk miles to training." This reinforces the need for prioritizing player welfare and fair treatment.

According to previous local media reports, in 2023, members of the women's team slept on benches outside Sydney Airport while en route to the Dubai Sevens tournament, while the men's team stayed in a nearby hotel. The disparity in treatment between the two teams sparked outrage among fans, and authorities blamed the incident on a "communication error." In 2016, the Fijian women's rugby team became the first Pacific nation to qualify for the Rio Olympics. In 2021, the team won a bronze medal at the Tokyo Olympics. However, they were eliminated in the group stage at last year's Paris Olympics, finishing last out of 12 teams. At the time, some also blamed lesbianism for causing divisions within the team. These incidents highlight the challenges and disparities faced by female athletes.

Naulivou is a well-known figure in the local rugby community, having served as the first captain of the women's national team and being an advocate for women's participation in the predominantly male sport. Naulivou was appointed to the Fiji Rugby Union board last Saturday after her predecessor resigned for personal reasons. The Fiji Rugby Union stated that she had also attempted to resign amid the recent controversy. "While she has tendered her resignation, the Board felt it necessary to take a firm stand to reinforce its commitment to upholding professional standards and safeguarding the values of Fiji Rugby," the statement read. "Our women's team and all players can be assured that this will in no way affect their opportunities, representation and continued development as integral members of Fiji Rugby." This underscores the organization's commitment to ensuring a fair and inclusive environment for all players.