Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) President Reynald Temarii has expressed his shock and sadness at the passing of Leone Rakoroi, one of the most highly regarded referees within Oceania.
Rakoroi died early Sunday morning after being involved in a car accident while returning home from celebrations to mark victory by Navua in the Fiji FACT club competition.
President Temarii says it was with a sad heart that he learned of the tragedy.
"On behalf of OFC and Oceania’s football family, we wish to extend our condolences and support to Leone Rakoroi’s family, friends and loved ones,” he said.
"We sincerely hope that all those who knew Leone will find some amount of peace and solace in this time of sadness."
OFC General Secretary Tai Nicholas praised Rakoroi for a long career as one of the most popular and respected referees in Oceania football history.
“As a former FIFA Referee, Leone officiated in many key tournaments including the FIFA U-17 World Championship in Finland in 2003,” said Nicholas. “His loss will be felt heavily throughout Oceania where he has done so much for the game.”
Rakoroi, who was in his mid-40s, resided in Votualevu on the outskirts of Nadi and is survived by his wife and four children.
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