FIFA President Gianni Infantino has said that the Maldives has the potential to achieve international football success by focusing on nurturing young talent.

Infantino arrived in the Maldives on an official visit, marking the first visit by a FIFA President in 19 years. He was warmly welcomed upon arrival, with cultural performances held at the airport. Players from the national football and futsal teams, as well as youth academies, were also present to greet him.

During his visit, President Infantino met with President Dr Mohamed Muizzu. At the meeting, President Dr Muizzu highlighted that football is the most popular sport in the Maldives and plays an important role in uniting and strengthening the nation. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to developing football and expressed full support for the Football Association of Maldives (FAM).

Infantino praised the recent improvements in football management in the Maldives, commending FAM’s efforts to overcome past challenges. He also expressed admiration for the country’s passion for the sport, noting that football, alongside the Maldives’ natural beauty and culture, is a defining part of its identity.

As part of his visit, Infantino is scheduled to meet with other key football stakeholders in the Maldives to discuss further development opportunities within the sport.