The Government has announced plans to restructure revenue from futsal fields in Male', redirecting income from private operators to a newly established Sports Fund, Minister of Sports, Fitness and Recreation Abdulla Rafiu revealed during Tuesday's Parliamentary Social Affairs Committee meeting.

The Cabinet has approved channelling revenue into the Sports Fund, pending amendments to the Sports Act.

The initiative addresses concerns highlighted by Maafannu Hulhangu MP Mohamed Mustafa Ibrahim, who questioned why private groups profit from stadium rentals whilst football clubs struggle financially.

Minister Rafiu acknowledged irregularities in the current system, explaining that many fields were allocated informally, with some distributed through letters without proper policies or consistent procedures in place.

He added that they are working to reach mutual agreements with current operators to ensure continued access while directing revenue towards sports development. He emphasised their plans to formalise these arrangements through proper documentation.

This restructuring aims to enhance sports governance across the Maldives, though the Minister acknowledged implementation would require careful negotiation with stakeholders.

MP Mustafa noted that several football clubs would construct their own facilities if land became available, to which the Minister responded positively, indicating Government support when suitable locations are identified.

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has already taken steps to establish the National Sports Fund through a cabinet decision on November 4, 2024. The fund aims to increase sports participation, improve development, and empower the local sporting community, with necessary amendments to the Sports Act forthcoming.