Fiji have pulled out of next weekend's round of the World Rugby Sevens series in Malaga, Spain after players and members of management tested positive for COVID-19.
The personnel who tested positive are "well and asymptomatic", Fiji Rugby Union chief executive John O'Connor said, adding that the men's and women's teams were still hoping to travel and compete in the following round in Seville from January 28-30.
"That 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," O'Connor said.
"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.
"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. "We would also like to reassure the families that the players are all well and we thank them for their support”
Fiji's men's side, who defeated New Zealand to retain their Olympic Rugby Sevens gold in Tokyo last year, are sixth in the standings, while the women's team are second, four points behind leaders Australia.
