Hosting International Football Tournaments a Key Goal, Says President
President Mohamed Muizzu has stated that creating opportunities for the Maldives to host international football tournaments remains one of the government’s major goals as efforts continue to strengthen sports development across the country.
The President made the remarks in a message shared on X to mark World Football Day, celebrated globally on May 25.
In his message, President Muizzu described football as a unifying sport capable of bringing people together across borders and cultures.
He emphasized that promoting sports and encouraging healthy, active lifestyles among citizens continues to be a central priority of the government.
According to the President, the administration has already made significant progress in decentralizing sports activities through amendments brought to the Sports Act.
He also highlighted ongoing efforts to upgrade football infrastructure nationwide, including the construction of FIFA-standard football stadiums and improved sporting facilities.
President Muizzu stated that the government is actively working to pave the way for international football tournaments to be hosted in the Maldives in the future.
According to him, such opportunities would provide valuable international exposure for Maldivian athletes while helping local players compete at higher levels.
The government is currently carrying out several sports development initiatives across the country, including the construction of football grounds, futsal courts, volleyball courts and basketball facilities in various islands and cities.
The President also noted that recent changes to the Sports Act have transformed the country’s football structure by expanding opportunities for clubs outside the capital.
Previously, the Maldives First Division was limited largely to clubs based in Malé. However, under the revised system, the country has now been divided into four competitive zones, allowing teams from outer islands and atolls to compete at the national top-flight level.
The government has repeatedly stated that expanding sports opportunities for youth and strengthening community-based sporting activities are important components of its broader youth and development agenda.
