Tonga has been selected to host the 2031 Pacific Games, marking the country’s return to the spotlight after withdrawing from hosting the 2019 event.
The announcement was made in Koror, Palau, on Friday, where the Pacific Games Council members voted in favour of Tonga’s bid, securing 12 votes against Fiji’s nine.
This will be the first time Tonga hosts a major Pacific sporting event since the 1989 Pacific Mini Games. The decision comes seven years after Tonga withdrew from hosting the 2019 Pacific Games under the leadership of the late Prime Minister Samiuela ‘Akilisi Pohiva, forcing the Games to move to Samoa.
Prime Minister Hu’akavameiliku led the delegation and expressed gratitude to the Council for its support. “We are grateful for the votes and backing to host the 2031 Games. There is much work ahead, but we are confident in our people and partners,” he said.
Tonga’s delegation also included Lord Vaea, the Minister of Sports, and Olympian Pita Taufatofua.
Source: RNZ
