Malé, Maldives: After nearly two decades, the Maldives has once again welcomed a FIFA President to its shores.
Gianni Infantino, the head of world football’s governing body, arrived in the Maldives to a warm and vibrant reception from football officials, government representatives, national team players, and young academy talents.
The welcome ceremony, held in Velana International Airport, featured a spirited cultural performance by the Bidhabin Boduberu Group, celebrating the rich heritage of the “Sunny Side of Life.”
Infantino’s visit is part of his ongoing tour across Asia, aimed at strengthening FIFA’s partnerships with regional football associations and promoting grassroots development.
FAM President Ahmed Thariq previously described the visit as a landmark moment for Maldivian football.
“We are honoured to welcome FIFA President Gianni Infantino to the Maldives, marking the first visit by a FIFA President in 19 years. This historic occasion represents a renewed commitment to developing football across our islands and highlights FIFA’s strong cooperation with the Football Association of Maldives,” Thariq said.
This marks only the second visit by a sitting FIFA President to the Maldives. Former FIFA President Sepp Blatter last visited in 2006, when FIFA contributed USD 2 million towards the Maldives’ tsunami recovery efforts.
Infantino, who is currently serving his third term as FIFA President after being first elected in 2015, has emphasized his dedication to advancing football in smaller nations. He also praised the current FAM leadership under Thariq for revitalizing Maldivian football during a challenging period for the association.
The visit signifies a new chapter for football in the Maldives, one rooted in unity, development, and global collaboration under FIFA’s ongoing mission to grow the game worldwide.
