Jake White was officially unveiled as the new coach of the Fiji national team on Tuesday, reportedly having emerged as the prime candidate from a field of 31 applicants.
White’s first assignment will be the historic centenary Test against Japan in Tokyo on 24 October 2026, a significant international occasion marking 100 years of the Japan Rugby Football Union.
The Flying Fijians will then travel to Europe for the November Nations Championship, facing three formidable opponents in France, Ireland and Italy and a playoff match in London.
Clear expectations for Jake White
In a statement, Fiji Rugby made it clear that there was a big task ahead for White, who served as the Bulls’ director of rugby from 2020 to 2025 and has most recently been working as a consultant at Selborne College in East London.
“Jake White arrives in Fiji with one of the most distinguished coaching records in international rugby, having guided South Africa’s Springboks to Rugby World Cup glory in 2007, secured the Tri Nations title in 2004 and led South Africa’s Under-21 side to a world championship in 2002,” the statement read.
“Fiji is focused on combining those uniquely Fijian strengths with the discipline, consistency, tactical intelligence and high-performance standards required to succeed at the highest level.
“The vision is clear: to build a Flying Fijians team that remains unmistakably Fijian in its identity but is increasingly formidable in its execution.
“This new chapter is about unlocking the full potential of Fijian rugby while preserving the fearless spirit that has earned the Flying Fijians admiration across the world.
Exciting new chapter
Commenting on his appointment, Whites said he saw an opportunity to build something special at the beginning of an ambitious new chapter towards Rugby World Cup 2027 in Australia.
“It is an incredible honour to be given the opportunity to lead the Flying Fijians. Fiji holds a special place in world rugby. There are very few nations where the game means so much to its people, and where the players bring such extraordinary natural ability, courage and passion to the field.
“Having coached at the highest level, including at a Rugby World Cup, I understand the preparation, discipline, belief and collective commitment required to compete against the best teams in the world.
“What excites me most about Fiji is the potential. This is a nation that has already shown it can challenge the world’s rugby powers. My responsibility is to work with the players, coaches and everyone involved in Fiji Rugby to build on that foundation and turn potential into consistent performances.
“I am not coming to Fiji to change what makes Fijian rugby special. I want to protect that identity, strengthen it and combine it with the structures, discipline and winning habits that will allow these players to express their talents on thebiggest stage.
“Our journey begins immediately with the historic Test against Japan, followed by important challenges against France, Ireland and Italy in November. Every one of those matches will be an opportunity to learn, improve and establish the standards we need heading towards Rugby World Cup 2027.
“I know what winning a Rugby World Cup means to a country. I have seen how it can unite a nation and inspire generations.The talent is here. The passion is here. Now we must put in the work to build something truly special.”