His Excellency President Dr Mohamed Muizzu and His Excellency Gianni Infantino, President of the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA), took part in an exhibition football match held as part of the Kids’ Football Festival organised by the Football Association of Maldives (FAM). The event took place today at the National Stadium and was organised in conjunction with Infantino’s visit to the Maldives.
President Dr Muizzu’s team included Vice President Uz Hussain Mohamed Latheef, Cabinet Ministers, and senior Government officials. FIFA President Infantino’s team featured former Italian footballer Marco Materazzi and several renowned legends of Maldivian football. Infantino’s team claimed a 6-4 victory in the match.
During the event, President Dr Muizzu and FIFA President Infantino jointly unveiled the Diamond Jubilee logo commemorating 75 years of Maldivian football. Both leaders, along with the participating players, also interacted with children from the festival teams and signed autographs.
Official football tournaments in the Maldives began with the formation of "Kulhivaru Muntazim" as a sports regulation body in 1950. The Football Association of Maldives (FAM) was founded in 1982 and became a member of the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) in 1986.
Strengthening sports infrastructure, creating opportunities for athletes, and fostering a healthy and active society remain key priorities of President Dr Muizzu’s Administration.
First Lady Sajidha Mohamed, students from various academies, and members of the public gathered at the National Stadium to watch this historic exhibition match.