Male’, Maldives: FIFA President Gianni Infantino has expressed strong support for the future of football in the Maldives, following a meeting with Football Association of Maldives (FAM) President Ahmed Thariq.
The discussion, held in the wake of the Maldives’ recent footballing success, centered on development strategies and how to bring the sport closer to fans across the island nation.
Infantino described the meeting as “a pleasure,” highlighting President Thariq’s commitment and vision for Maldivian football.
“A former player himself, President Thariq brings experience and insight to the role, and since his election in July, has been working with great dedication,” Infantino noted.
The FIFA President commended the Maldives for its recent triumph at the South Asian Super Cup, the men’s national team’s first trophy in seven years. He also emphasized the importance of the country’s renewed focus on women’s football, pointing to the upcoming women’s tournament later this year as a significant milestone.
“These achievements demonstrate the redirection of football in the Maldives towards a future we are excited to shape together,” Infantino added, signaling FIFA’s readiness to collaborate with FAM in advancing infrastructure, development programs, and opportunities for players at all levels.
The meeting reflects FIFA’s growing partnership with smaller footballing nations, ensuring that the sport continues to inspire and unite communities worldwide. For the Maldives, the backing of global football’s governing body comes at a pivotal time, as the country seeks to build on its recent success and elevate both men’s and women’s football to new heights.
