Fiji wins second gold medal in Rugby Sevens at consecutive Olympic Games

Fiji today won its second Olympic gold medal in Rugby Sevens in consecutive Olympic Games having previously won at Rio 2016.

Two members of that Rio 2016 winning team, who also received the 2016 ANOC Award for Best Male Team, were part of the team here in Tokyo.

The Flying Fijians overcame rivals New Zealand in the final at Tokyo 2020 with a convincing 27-12 win. It was an emotional moment for the team who haven’t seen their family since Easter as they have had to live in a bubble due to COVID-19.

“It takes a special kind of person to make that commitment. We knew at that stage it wasn’t going to be easy but I think the journey we’ve been on, we’ve recognised it would be tough and I think what you’ve seen out there today and the last three days is the resilience of the group dealing with whatever’s been thrown our way,” said Fiji coach Gareth Baber.

“I am very proud. It means a lot to me and the boys, and for all the people back home who have been going through the pandemic,” Sireli Maqala said. “It is a really big thing for all of us in Fiji.”

As they huddled together, the team broke out into song in the middle of the playing field. And after receiving their middles, the team broke out into a stirring rendition of ‘E Da Sa Qaqa’ (we have overcome).

“I think this is very special for us and for Fiji with everything that has been going on Fiji,” said Fiji captain Jerry Tuwai.

Watching on from the stands were Acting ANOC President and Fiji NOC President Robin Mitchell and ANOC Secretary General Gunilla Lindberg.