His Excellency President Dr Mohamed Muizzu and FIFA President Gianni Infantino took part in a spirited exhibition football match on Friday at the National Stadium, marking a key highlight of the Kids’ Football Festival organised by the Football Association of Maldives (FAM).
The event was held in conjunction with Infantino’s official visit to the Maldives and celebrated the Diamond Jubilee of Maldivian football. President Muizzu’s team featured Vice President Hussain Mohamed Latheef, Cabinet Ministers, and senior Government officials, while Infantino’s side included former Italian footballer Marco Materazzi and several legendary Maldivian players. Infantino’s team secured a 6–4 victory.
In a symbolic gesture, President Muizzu and Infantino jointly unveiled the Diamond Jubilee logo, commemorating 75 years since the formalisation of football in the Maldives. The leaders also interacted with children from the festival teams, signing autographs and encouraging youth participation in sports.
Football in the Maldives began officially in 1950 with the establishment of Kulhivaru Muntazim, the country’s first sports regulatory body. FAM was founded in 1982 and joined FIFA in 1986, marking the beginning of international recognition for Maldivian football.
President Muizzu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening sports infrastructure, expanding opportunities for athletes, and promoting a healthy and active society.
The event drew a large crowd, including First Lady Sajidha Mohamed, students from football academies, and members of the public, who gathered to witness the historic match and celebrate the legacy of Maldivian football.
