The Racing Association of Maldives (RAM) has voiced serious concern over a letter sent by the Sports Ministry to international racing bodies, which they say undermines their status as the official motorsport authority in the country.
In a statement issued on November 12, RAM said they received an urgent email from the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) containing a letter signed by Sports Minister Abdulla Rafiu. The letter reportedly claimed that motorsports in Maldives are overseen by a separate group, the Maldives Motor Racing Association (MMRA), and requested that MMRA be endorsed by both the FIA and the International Motorcycling Federation (FIM).
RAM, which has been promoting motorsports in the Maldives for the past seven years, was granted FIA membership at its General Assembly in December 2024. The association was also in the final stage of securing FIM membership, having received an invitation to attend the FIM General Assembly this December.
However, following the ministry’s letter, RAM was informed that it had been removed from the FIM assembly and that the matter is now under review by a dedicated FIA committee. FIM has also sent a letter to the Sports Ministry seeking clarification.
RAM emphasized that MMRA has not conducted any motorsport activities since 2016 and has made no sustained efforts to develop the sport. They expressed confusion over the ministry’s decision to endorse an inactive group and warned that such actions could damage the integrity of motorsport governance in the Maldives.
The association noted that it is registered with the Commissioner of Sports and recognized by the Maldives Olympic Committee, which reaffirmed RAM’s suitability to represent the country in both FIA and FIM in a letter dated November 19, 2023. RAM also cited a January 7 confirmation from the Sports Ministry acknowledging its provisional national status.
RAM further stated that they have been unable to host any events this year due to a government-imposed suspension in December 2024, which they say was unrelated to the sport. Despite assurances of compensation, no action has been taken, and RAM has yet to receive any formal explanation for the suspension.
“We have not received a letter from any government ministry explaining the reason for the suspension of the events,” RAM said, adding that the association, once hosting at least seven events annually, has been sidelined without cause.
RAM concluded by urging the government not to politicize sports or undermine national institutions for political gain. They have sent a formal letter to the Sports Ministry on October 26 seeking resolution.