Republic of Fiji: a Melanesian archipelago in the South Pacific
New Zealand has crushed Fiji 66-6 on the Gold Coast, extending their perfect World Cup run as several players are sidelined by injuries and disciplinary actions. Fiji remains competitive but saw key players sent off and faces an anxious wait on ban outcomes, while New Zealand eyes the semi-finals.
Two former refugees now competing for England have delivered silver medals at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, highlighting trials overcome to reach the podium and the personal journeys that shaped their careers.
A weightlifter who faced homelessness and mental health struggles has won silver at Glasgow 2014, later represented the IOC Refugee Team in Tokyo 2020 and now represents England. He credits perseverance and support from colleagues in turning his life around.
A 26-year-old rugby player, Saimoni Vunilagi, has died after displaying heatstroke symptoms following a team practice in Fukuoka on Monday as temperatures rose to 35C. The Kyushu KV team confirmed his death the following day, expressing devastation and condolences to his family.
The US plans to auction exploration licenses for seabed blocks near Pacific territories, drawing opposition from island leaders who warn of consultations gaps and ecological risks. Territorial governments seek clarity and a temporary ban amid concerns over food security and fisheries. Norfolk Island participates in Australia’s census as governance adapts.
The global football federation is confronting a fracturing alliance as three major confederations call for a review of Gianni Infantino’s leadership amid a shelved plan to sell World Cup commercial rights; New Zealand withdraws support, while Caf and Conmebol back Infantino for a fourth term. The next months will determine Infantino’s fate at the Rabat congress.
Munster's Jack Crowley is not expected to return from injury until the new year, affecting their URC opener against Glasgow Warriors. Will Harrison’s knee issue compounds fly-half concerns, leaving JJ Hanrahan, Tom Wood and Charlie O’Shea to share out-half duties while Ireland and club medical staff manage the squad around fresh returns.
Pacific Islands Forum opens in Palau as Beijing objects to Taiwan’s attendance. Pacific leaders press for autonomy in agenda; China warns of consequences. Taiwan’s foreign minister attends, sparking diplomatic friction.
Maro Itoje has taken a break from England’s Nations Championship fixtures to recover mentally and physically. He has rested during July and is back at Saracens with a full pre-season ahead as England prepare for four Tests in November and a Rugby World Cup in Australia next year.
A series of injury and medical recovery stories shows individuals returning from severe setbacks. From amputations and spinal injuries to heart events and major surgeries, responses highlight resilience, the role of medical teams, and the ongoing journey to regain independence.
Nauru has inaugurated an embassy in Jerusalem, signaling unwavering support for Israel and aiming to expand its diplomatic presence in the capital. Israeli officials describe the move as boosting Jerusalem’s global standing and anticipate more countries following suit in the coming months.
England's rugby union head coach Steve Borthwick has had his contract extended past the 2028 Six Nations to provide certainty ahead of next year’s World Cup in Australia. The RFU says the move will allow time to decide leadership beyond the tournament while backing the team if they perform well in Australia.
Sion Parry, named Wales-born captain of Ebbw Vale, has been allotted national duties with Canada, missing the SRC early rounds as he chases a World Cup spot in 2027. He balances carpentry with international rugby as he trains for Tests against Fiji, Japan and the USA in the Pacific Nations Cup and beyond.
Two prominent rugby stars make headlines this week: Georgia Evans of Wales and England’s Jonny Kildunne, as the sport’s profile grows with domestic moves and personal milestones. Evans seals engagement and family plans amid a season of triumphs; Kildunne opens up about her move to Bristol and ADHD management.
Fiji has declared a national health emergency after HIV infections have surged: new diagnoses reached about 2,016 in 2025 and an estimated 9,100 people were living with HIV. Only 39% knew their status and 22% were on antiretroviral treatment; the government has pledged expanded testing, free treatment, needle-and-syringe programmes and PrEP scale-up.
Joe Marchant has moved to Sale Sharks after a France stint, admitting expectations were high yet he has delivered with enhanced communication and versatility. He credits improved language skills and tactical clarity from Top 14 time, and is aiming to earn a return to England duty while continuing his Prem form.
Pacific nations and allies press for urgent action on climate finance, ocean health, and keeping 1.5°C within reach ahead of COP31 in Turkey. Pre-COP meetings in Fiji and Tuvalu highlight vulnerability to sea-level rise and demand concrete, community-level finance and adaptation.
Colombia has opened its embassy in Jerusalem, restoring diplomatic ties with Israel after severing them in 2024 over Gaza. The move is welcomed by Colombian and Israeli officials as a step to rebuild dialogue and security and trade cooperation. Protests in Bogota contest the decision amid ongoing Gaza war coverage.
Colombia has restored diplomatic relations with Israel and opened an embassy in Jerusalem, marking a shift from the Petro era. The move is celebrated by officials in both countries and signals a strengthened security and trade partnership, with priority given to dialogue and mutual benefits for citizens.
England’s Rugby League World Cup campaign is under pressure after a 30-12 warm-up loss to Tonga. Head coach Brian McDermott has named a half-back pairing and heritage-based selections for the Perth opener against Tonga, with Brimson at full-back and others in key roles. England and Australia squads are confirmed ahead of the weekend matches.
Scotland has named a 37-man squad for the Nations Championship phase, led by Townsend. The selection prioritizes experience, with returns for Huw Jones and Blair Kinghorn, and the introduction of Ollie Leatherbarrow. Scotland will host New Zealand, Australia and Japan at Murrayfield before Finals Weekend at Twickenham.