Male' Maldives: A few days ago, Ahmed Mubeen, the chairman of New Radiant Sports Club, posted on his official Facebook account about the exciting developments the club has planned for the upcoming season.
He mentioned that a major event will be organised to unveil these plans and hinted at “good news” for supporters. According to a reliable source, the announcement will be that New Radiant is returning to the top tier of Maldivian football.
From January 2019 to July 1, 2022, New Radiant was suspended from football activities by the Football Association of Maldives (FAM). The club has consistently argued that the suspension over non-payment of salaries was a result of its opposition to corruption under former FAM president Bassam Adeel Jaleel.
After failing twice in the second division, New Radiant could not regain first division status. However, Mubeen, elected chairman last November, has repeatedly pledged reforms and changes to secure a place in the country’s top league.
New Radiant’s path to first division: Report
According to FAM’s schedule, the second division tournament will begin on 28 March next year. While New Radiant was expected to compete, speculation grew on social media after news of the special event broke.
United Victory president Ismail Shafiu (Isse) even congratulated the club on its promotion to the first division.
FAM has approved 10 teams for the next Premier League season. If Super United Sports (SUS) does not participate, New Radiant is seeking a direct slot. Currently, two teams, Club Eagles and Victory Sports Club, have been promoted, while the third spot will be contested between semi-finalists Tent Sports Club and New Radiant. New Radiant would gain direct promotion only if Tent gives up the opportunity.
Those in powerful roles leading the club and FAM
In November, New Radiant elected a new board. Mubeen, who resigned as managing director of Regional Airports Company after becoming chairman, also serves as vice-chairman of the FAM’s Diamond Jubilee Committee. Senior vice-chairman Mohamed Ibrahim (Kappi), a PNC parliamentarian and FAM vice-president, and WAMCO MD Mujtaba Jaleel (Mujey) are also on the board.
Among other senior figures is Mohamed Lamaan, deputy MD of MACL and vice-chairman of New Radiant.
Observers point out that state-owned companies have long funded first division clubs, in the past, each club reportedly received MVR 3 million per season.
Critics say this practice strained other sports and led to misuse of funds, while today, many state-owned enterprises remain deeply involved in football governance, particularly within New Radiant.
