Male' Maldives: For the first time in 19 years, a sitting FIFA President has visited the Maldives, marking a milestone moment for football in the island nation.

Gianni Infantino, President of world football’s governing body FIFA, arrived in Malé to a warm welcome and an agenda focused on elevating the standards and development of Maldivian football.

The last FIFA presidential visit to the Maldives was in 2006, when then-President Sepp Blatter visited the country as part of FIFA’s post-tsunami recovery assistance programme.

During this landmark visit, Infantino met with Maldives President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu for high-level discussions centered on strengthening football infrastructure, improving training facilities, and expanding grassroots programs across the country.

Both leaders reaffirmed their shared commitment to advancing the sport, with President Muizzu and Infantino pledging continued collaboration between FIFA and the Football Association of Maldives (FAM).

Infantino also joined an exhibition match at the Galolhu National Stadium, where the FIFA President’s Team faced off against a side led by President Dr. Muizzu. The friendly yet competitive encounter ended with a 6–4 victory for Infantino’s FIFA team. Among the standout participants was Italian football legend Marco Materazzi, who added a touch of World Cup glamour to the event.

Speaking after the trip to Maldives, Infantino expressed his deep appreciation for the hospitality and passion of the Maldivian people:

“I had a truly fulfilling time in the beautiful Maldives among its football-loving people, especially the children. This place is a paradise, and I was particularly delighted to speak with President Dr. Muizzu, Tourism Minister Thoriq, FAM President Ahmed Thariq, and everyone at the Football Association of Maldives about the future of our game and how we can develop it together,” Infantino said.

“It was also fantastic to play a friendly match. A big thank you to everyone – and in particular to President Muizzu, who is also an exceptional football player as we witnessed today, and my friend and FIFA Legend Marco Materazzi.

I will hold this day close to my heart, and the smiles here will serve as a reminder to continue making our sport even more accessible in this country and all over the planet.”

Infantino’s visit is part of his wider Asian tour, aimed at reinforcing FIFA’s commitment to football development and collaboration with regional associations. His arrival in the Maldives underscores FIFA’s dedication to helping smaller nations strengthen their sporting foundations and inspire future generations.