Male' Maldives: Super United Sports (SUS) has officially notified the Football Association of Maldives (FAM) of their decision to withdraw from the country’s top division. This move clears the path for New Radiant Sports Club to make their long-awaited return to the premier tier of Maldivian football.
On August 23rd, Super United Sports (SUS) sent an official letter to the Football Association of Maldives (FAM), citing financial constraints as the reason they are unable to participate in the upcoming first division season. In the letter, SUS confirmed their intention to withdraw from the competition.
Following this, FAM announced that SUS will face sanctions in line with the Premier League (DPL) regulations. The club will be fined MVR 200,000, while their vacant spot will be allocated to the next best team from the Regional League, in this case, from the Second Division.
The most recent Second Division tournament did not feature a third-place playoff. In the semifinals, Victory Sports Club defeated New Radiant 2-0, while Odi Sports Club overpowered Tent Sports Club 5-1.
Based on these results, reports suggest that New Radiant is likely to be awarded the vacant first division slot left by SUS. However, the final decision will need approval from the FAM Executive Committee, a board that notably includes New Radiant Vice Presidents, raising speculation of a favorable outcome for the former champions.
New Radiant, one of the most decorated clubs in Maldivian football history, is preparing for a comeback to the top division. The club has appointed former Maldives National Team coach Ali Suzain as their new head coach and confirmed the signing of National Team vice-captain Ali Fasir (Sentey), who returns for his fourth spell with the Blues.
