The Football Association of Maldives (FAM) may face financial collapse if the unresolved land dispute with the Housing Development Corporation (HDC) in Hulhumale’ continues. FAM’s Normalization Committee Chairperson, Ahmed Zuhoor, expressed concerns that without support from HDC, FAM could lose critical assistance from FIFA, putting its finances in jeopardy.
The issue centers on a plot of land in Hulhumale’ intended for a football academy, which HDC now intends to repossess due to FAM’s failure to pay rent. FAM has reportedly leased portions of the land on long-term agreements, some up to 40 years, for commercial purposes. This could lead to legal disputes and compensation costs of nearly MVR 200 million if tenants seek recourse, escalating FAM’s debts into the hundreds of millions.
Zuhoor emphasized the importance of government-wide support to resolve the situation, noting that FIFA may withdraw aid if it perceives a lack of commitment from the Maldives. FAM has reached out to HDC for concessions and meetings, aiming for a resolution to secure the association’s operations and maintain FIFA’s confidence in Maldivian football.
“This is a pivotal moment,” said Zuhoor, stressing that, if unresolved, FAM may not get a similar opportunity for support in the future.
