Marika Koroibete, a name synonymous with lightning-fast speed and rugby prowess, has been making waves in both rugby league and rugby union. But just how fast can Marika Koroibete run, and how good is he on the field?
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Born on July 26, 1992, in Naraiyawa, Fiji, Koroibete’s journey to sporting stardom began in the humblest of settings, on a remote family farm in Fiji. His introduction to rugby came through Nasinu Secondary School, where he first showcased his talent in rugby union.
Koroibete’s versatility and athleticism quickly caught the eye of scouts. After a brief stint in junior rugby league, he embarked on a journey to Australia, signing a 3-year contract with the Wests Tigers. His talent was evident even before he set foot on Australian soil, having impressed in a match for the Fiji Under 19s against Australian-born Fijian players.
Notably, Koroibete wasn’t solely focused on rugby during his early years. He had contemplated pursuing a career in sprinting, a testament to his incredible speed. In fact, he had clocked an impressive 10.75 seconds in the 100-meter sprint—an indication of his extraordinary athleticism.
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In his initial years with the Wests Tigers, Koroibete played for the Toyota Cup team, making an immediate impact. Over two seasons in 2011 and 2012, he scored a remarkable 22 tries in 26 games. His contributions were instrumental in the team’s victory in the 2012 Grand Final, where he scored two tries.
Reflecting on Koroibete’s potential, the 2012 Toyota Cup coach, Todd Payten, had this to say: “The most exciting part with Marika is that we’re only really scratching the surface. He’s got a couple of little issues, and once we iron them out, he’s certainly going to be a crowd pleaser.”
Fast forward to today, and Marika Koroibete’s impact on the rugby world is undeniable. He has seamlessly transitioned from rugby league to rugby union, donning the green and gold for the Australia national rugby union team. As a winger for the Melbourne Rebels in Super Rugby, Koroibete’s speed remains a weapon that keeps defenders on their toes.
While the exact speed at which Koroibete can run may not be readily available, his reputation as one of the fastest players on the rugby field speaks for itself. His ability to break through defenses and score crucial tries has made him a fan favorite and a key asset for his teams.


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