The IRB has suspended all financial support to the Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) with immediate effect until the union introduces new management systems.

The FRU is required to adopt key financial reporting, administration and governance reforms before the IRB will continue the funding.

‘The IRB and the Federation of Oceania Rugby Unions have formally expressed concerns that the financial position of the union is unsustainable and could create instability and impact on the management of the union and key IRB-funded development and high performance programmes,’ read an IRB press statement.

‘The IRB committed £1.1million (FJ$3.3million) in direct funding to the FRU in 2013 and significant additional financial assistance to participate in international tournaments in 2013.

‘The IRB remains committed to rugby in Fiji and the performance of the men's and women's national 15s and sevens teams and will work closely with FORU and the FRU to ensure that all administration and governance reforms are delivered and funding is reinstated.’

Last week, it was reported that Fiji Sevens coach Ben Ryan has not been paid since his appointment at the beginning of the season, due to the union’s dire financial situation.

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