Government recognizes urgency of FAM's land issue in Hulhumalé

The Maldives government has acknowledged the urgency surrounding the Football Association of Maldives’ (FAM) land in Hulhumalé, initially allocated for constructing a football academy. FAM Chairperson Ahmed Zuhoor confirmed the government's understanding the gravity of the matter, although he stated that a resolution would require multiple steps.

The land, allocated to FAM for a football school, is now set to be reclaimed due to FAM’s outstanding rent payments. The Housing Development Corporation (HDC) has previously instructed FAM to vacate commercial establishments operating on the premises.

Zuhoor revealed that agreements made by FAM's former leadership mean FAM would face significant compensation costs if these properties are seized from the businesses occupying the commercial spaces. He warned that such a scenario could increase FAM’s debt to hundreds of millions. Eight businesses currently hold commercial plots on the land, he added, and FIFA would not cover any associated compensation fees. Should FAM bear these expenses alone, it risks liquidation and could lose all FIFA aid.

"It’s encouraging that the government recognizes the issue’s seriousness," Zuhoor told Mihaaru, though he emphasized that full reinstatement of the land to FAM will likely be a phased process.

Zuhoor also expressed optimism following President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s Republic Day speech, in which the President committed to prioritizing football’s revival in the Maldives. "God willing, we are dedicated to bringing back the vibrancy of football in this country. Football is our most cherished sport and is deeply woven into our culture," the president said, pledging government support for the sport’s resurgence.

Resolving the land issue promptly is essential, Zuhoor noted, as it would allow FIFA to provide financial aid to construct the football school. FIFA President Gianni Infantino has assured FIFA’s technical support for the academy once the land dispute is resolved.

With the land dispute settled, FAM could immediately begin developing the academy in partnership with FIFA and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC). Although the land was allocated five years ago, FAM has only managed to construct an accommodation block, with no substantial progress on the proposed boarding school-style football academy.