The Maldives government has recognized the urgency of resolving the Football Association of Maldives’ (FAM) land dispute in Hulhumalé, originally allocated for a football academy. FAM Chairperson Ahmed Zuhoor confirmed the government’s awareness of the issue but emphasized that resolving it would involve multiple steps.
The land is set to be reclaimed due to FAM’s unpaid rent. Additionally, the Housing Development Corporation (HDC) has instructed FAM to vacate commercial establishments operating on the premises. Zuhoor explained that previous agreements made by FAM’s former leadership could result in significant compensation costs for the businesses, potentially pushing FAM’s debt into the hundreds of millions. FIFA will not cover these expenses, and FAM risks liquidation and losing FIFA aid if forced to pay.
Zuhoor expressed optimism following President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s Republic Day speech, where the President pledged support for reviving football in the Maldives. FIFA President Gianni Infantino has also assured technical support for the academy once the land dispute is resolved.
Resolving the issue would enable FAM to start constructing the football academy, which has seen minimal progress since the land was allocated five years ago.
