Creating a team in Biarritz or Bilbao? Latui, the Fijian project that intrigues in the Basque Country

The Fijian Rugby Federation is preparing to create “Fiji Latui”, a team based in the Basque Country bringing together the best expatriate players in Europe. A strategic project to structure a largely untapped talent pool.

According to our information, the Fijian rugby federation is about to take a new step in its international development strategy with the creation of a new team, named “Fiji Latui”. Although not yet official, the project is well advanced behind the scenes and could come to fruition in the coming weeks. This team, halfway between an “A” selection and a Barbarians-type team, would possibly be based in the Basque Country – a competition is currently underway between Biarritz and Bilbao. Its purpose would be to gather in one place some of the numerous Fijian players playing in various European leagues. It is estimated that there are nearly 500 players from the archipelago currently scattered across amateur and professional leagues in Europe. A significant talent pool, but still largely untapped by the federation, which acknowledges not having comprehensive monitoring of its expatriates.

In this context, “Fiji Latui” would serve as a tool for structuring and detection. The goal would be twofold: to provide a competitive showcase for these players while strengthening ties with the national team, the Flying Fijians.

San Mames for international matches?

The choice of the Basque Country as the home for this selection is no coincidence. The region, historically rooted in rugby culture, offers suitable infrastructure, proximity to major French and Spanish professional leagues, as well as logistical links to the rest of Europe. Discussions have been initiated with local stakeholders to establish a sustainable base camp capable of hosting training sessions, matches, and player monitoring operations that have so far gone unnoticed by the federation.

Beyond the sporting aspect, “Fiji Latui” would also address economic and organizational challenges. By partially establishing in Europe, the Fijian federation seeks to optimize the management of its international players, reduce travel constraints, and enhance its image in lucrative markets. In this regard, the federation is in advanced talks with two European multinational companies to help finance the project. Consequently, “Fiji Latui” could become a significant strategic lever in the medium term as the next international events approach, including the new Nations Championship.