Efforts underway to channel stadium revenue into Sports Fund

Minister of Sports Abdulla Rafiu told Parliament today that efforts are underway to channel revenue from football stadiums controlled by certain sports clubs and groups into the government’s sports fund.

At a meeting of the Parliament's Committee on Social Affairs, Maafannu West MP Mohamed Musthafa raised concerns about the groups controlling the stadiums and renting them out to generate income.

He questioned whether it was fair that these groups were receiving opportunities that could benefit the first division football clubs in Maldives.

In response, Minister Rafiu said that the allocation of fields to various groups without clear regulations was a longstanding issue inherited from previous governments. He expressed concern over the lack of consistency in how fields were allocated.

"I don't think previous governments maintained any consistency in allocating the fields," Rafiu said.

"Some fields were allocated through letters or informal agreements, and that’s what I’m most concerned about. There is no system in place".

Rafiu added that, while these fields have been under the control of the groups for a long time, the issue cannot be resolved easily. The government is working to find a resolution through dialogue, aiming to balance the interests of all parties involved.

The government’s plan is to ensure that the stadiums remain accessible to the current groups, with the revenue generated from their rent being directed into the newly established sports fund.

"Those who use the facilities will likely reinvest the money into promoting sports," Rafiu said. "With the newly passed Sports Act, these matters will be better organized."

MP Musthafa also raised concerns from football clubs in his constituency, who lack adequate facilities. He stated that the clubs are willing to build their own stadiums if provided with land.

Rafiu responded that the government is also prepared to build stadiums if suitable land is available. He assured that he would work to find a comprehensive solution to address the issue.