Bodybuilding Association apologises over World Bodybuilding Championship concerns

The Bodybuilding Association of Maldives has issued a public apology addressing concerns raised over events that took place during this year's World Bodybuilding Championship hosted by the country.

After photos and videos of the event circulated on social media, many raised concerns over the Maldivian government's double standards in condemning this year's Maldivian Miss Universe candidate citing the country's religious beliefs, but hosting the bodybuilding event where participants of both genders do not adhere to Islamic standards of covering. Male Maldivian athletes also participated in the event.

Netizens also raised concerns that the event began with a Quran recitation despite violating Islamic standards of body covering.

Following the uproar, the statement issued by the Bodybuilding Association of Maldives said that it sought the opportunity to host the championship to strengthen Maldives' profile in global sports and to boost the country's economy and tourism.

It further said that efforts towards hosting the event began very early on and that the opportunity was obtained through a competitive attempt.

"After signing a contract with the World Bodybuilding and Physical Sports Federation to host the tournament, this association decided to move forward with the event after considering the potential financial and other losses to Maldives' sports associations and the country as a whole, should the event have been cancelled," the statement read.

The association also highlighted that the event was held at Canareef Island Resort, which is a designated tourist island where tourists are free to dress as they like.

According to the Bodybuilding Association, they tried to execute the event in line with President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's vision and the instruction of the Sports Ministry. However, apologised given the public reaction, and assured it would not happen in the future.