The University of Leeds has extended its support to the Maldives through offering opportunities to train Maldivian athletes for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland.
In an interview with PSM News, Minister of Sports, Fitness and Recreation Abdulla Rafiu said his recent visit to the UK opened new avenues for the development of football as well as other sports in the Maldives. He noted that discussions with relevant sports associations would follow.
During his visit to the UK, the Minister met with the Mayor of Leeds and the Mayor of West Yorkshire. The meeting, which was attended by President Mohamed Muizzu, focused on enhancing the development of Maldivian athletes. Both mayors assured him their full support for providing training opportunities to the Maldives, the Minister said.
The Minister also held detailed discussions with officials from the University of Leeds, including regarding technical assistance in areas such as sports medicine. He said both sides emphasised the importance of sports physiotherapy, sports psychology and sports nutrition.
The Minister said he also explored the opportunities available for Maldivians to train in these areas through Leeds University as well as training conditioning coaches. Leeds University intends to provide substantial assistance to these areas, Rafiu said.
The Minister expressed confidence in the university’s capacity to provide support through its various faculties, and expressed his hope that training opportunities will be made available as an outcome of the discussions.
"For example, sports like swimming and athletics are very popular in Leeds, and athletes from Yorkshire have won medals in some sports at the last Olympics. It is very promising if we can tap into that strength,”Minister Rafiu said.
The Minister has previously stated that initiating partnerships in the right way can create more opportunities, especially for football and other sports in the Maldives.