Raiwalui leaves Fiji role after dream World Cup

NEWS: Simon Raiwalui said on Tuesday he will leave the role of Fiji head coach at the end of the year after the Pacific Islanders were beaten by England in the World Cup quarterfinals.

Raiwalui’s swashbuckling team impressed at the tournament, memorably beating Australia and eventually relegating the Wallabies to a historic elimination in the group phase.

“I will not be seeking an extension of employment with FRU past December 31. Thanks again to the players, staff & all the supporters, it has been quite a ride,” Raiwalui posted on X, formerly Twitter.

Raiwalui, a 49-year-old former lock for Newport, Saracens and French club Racing 92, took over as Fiji coach in February after Vern Cotter resigned.

Despite a thrilling late comeback, Fiji were eliminated after losing 24-30 to England in Marseille on Sunday.