Jiuta Wainiqolo: From Soccer Star to Rugby’s Top Try‑Scorer

Early Days on the Pitch

Jiuta Wainiqolo began his sporting journey as a striker, recalling his days trying out for Fiji’s under‑20 soccer squad. The 27‑year‑old once likened his heading ability to Harry Kane, a comparison that hinted at the ambition burning in his young legs. After those early football adventures, Wainiqolo pivoted to the oval ball, a switch that would eventually unleash his explosive talent on the rugby world.

Rugby Breakthrough and Olympic Glory

Wainiqolo’s move to the Olympic Sevens stage became a launching pad for a lucrative overseas career. At just 22, he forced his way into Fiji’s 12‑strong all‑star squad for the Tokyo 2021 Games, despite playing domestically and lacking top‑tier Sevens exposure. The covid‑affected preparation turned a brief training camp into a four‑month isolation, yet the Fi Jis emerged victorious, with Wainiqolo finishing as the team’s top try‑scorer, crossing five times in the gold‑medal campaign.

Top 14 Dominance for Lyon

His success in Japan attracted French giants Toulon, but Wainiqolo quickly sensed that league rules favouring homegrown talent could stall his progress. Switching to Lyon in the 2024‑25 season proved transformative. He finished the campaign head and shoulders above the rest in the Top 14 try‑scoring standings, netting 18 tries in just 20 games. The French champion Bordeaux Bègles’ Louis Bielle‑Biarrey was his nearest challenger with 13 tries, underscoring Wainiqolo’s out‑of‑the‑park performance.

At Lyon, Wainiqolo praised the freedom from the Jiff quota constraints, stating he now plays every match without worrying about stats. His ability to change direction, sidestep and maintain physicality earned him a reputation as “arguably the most exciting wing in the world.” The images from his Lyon tenure capture his dynamic style, a visual testament to his rise from a modest background to elite ranks.

The Show‑Stopping Try of 2025

Wainiqolo’s highlight reel includes a spectacular play in 2025. Collecting a bobbling, backward ball deep in his own half, he sliced past four Australia defenders before lobbing a pass that allowed Lekima Tagitagivalu to dive in for the score. The moment, showcased in a popular Instagram reel, highlighted his blend of speed, agility and decisive finishing.

A World Cup Quarter‑Final Preview

Now gearing up for the Rugby World Cup quarter‑final against Norway, Wainiqolo brings his lightning pace and power to the global stage. He notes that England’s physicality, honed against world‑number‑one South Africa, will be met with Fiji’s own rugged approach. Drawing parallels to the 39‑24 defeat by Wales, he stresses that his team will balance out any shortcomings and unleash a more physical performance reminiscent of South Africa’s tactics against England.

Physical Attributes and Training Roots

Standing at 6 ft 2 in and weighing 15 st 4 lb, Wainiqolo credits his soccer background for much of his agility. The drills he performed in school—sudden‑direction changes, sidesteps, ankle stabilisers—remain part of his daily regimen. He still embraces those movements, believing they keep his legs and mindset razor‑sharp for the high‑tempo wing play demanded in modern rugby.

Team Dynamics and International Flair

Wainiqolo’s time at Toulon introduced him to several English internationals, including Kyle Sinckler, David Ribbans and Lewis Ludlam. At Lyon his lone English connection, Sam Simmonds, impresses him with speed and leadership, though the former Exeter man’s hairline has changed. When asked, Wainiqolo jokes that he might drop Simmonds a message for insight on England’s systems, while insisting his own squad possesses enough tactical acumen to succeed.

Historical Context and Fi Jis Confidence

Fiji’s recent history against England adds intrigue to the upcoming clash. The island nation’s first-ever Test win over England came in August 2023, a result that still resonates in the squad. Wainiqolo, who watched that match from the Twickenham touchlines as a non‑playing squad member, recalls the physicality and directness that defined the victory. This legacy fuels his belief that Fiji can repeat the upset against a England side still reeling after five consecutive Test defeats.

Looking Ahead

With his blend of soccer‑derived footwork, rugby‑specific power and a competitive mindset, Wainiqolo stands at the cusp of historic moments. Whether he adds another try to his résumé or leads Fiji to a shock quarter‑final upset, his journey from a humble Fijian striker to a Top 14 try‑scoring star promises more drama and excitement for fans worldwide. The eyes of the rugby world will be on the wing who once compared himself to Harry Kane, now ready to dazzle on the global stage.