7s players, officials test positive for COVID-19

The Fiji Men’s and Women’s teams won’t be traveling to Spain for the Malaga 7s tonight as planned after some players and officials returned positive COVID-19 results as part of their 72 hours pre-departure testing.
 
Fiji Rugby Union chief executive John O’Connor said as per traveling protocols both teams went through the COVID-19 PCR test and unfortunately a few results turned out positive.
 
He said the management and players who have tested positive are all well and are also asymptomatic but taking in consideration that the entire team are primary contacts and after discussions with the Ministry of Health and considering the safety and welfare of everyone, the entire teams have moved into the mandatory 7 days isolation in their respective camps last night after results were received.
 
“We are working with the Ministry of Health to ensure compliance with the protocols and having the required testing to ensure everyone is cleared so we can return to train safely with the intention of participating in the Seville 7s the following week.”
 
O’Connor also highlighted that Fiji Rugby is working very closely with the hosts in Spain in terms of rescheduling the flights and in terms of compliance with the tournament requirements so they can ensure compliance prior to departure.

“All the players and management had tested negative in our routine rapid antigen test and everyone involved is disappointed with the developments but the safety and welfare of everyone involved is always the priority and we thank the Ministry of Health for their support and guidance.”

“This incident shows how unpredictable the current Omicron variant transmits even when the 7s teams are in a bubble. It has also allowed FRU to review its COVID-19 protocols around pre-tournament requirements in Fiji such as camps, training and travel to allow for both our 7s team to travel internationally and participate in the World Rugby Sevens Series.”
 
O’Connor has reassured families of players and team management and they are all well and thanked them for their support.

By Reginald Chandar