Maldives to host training camp for Palestinian U-17 football team

Ministry of Sports has announced its full support for hosting the Palestinian Under-17 national football team in the Maldives for a training camp ahead of their upcoming international fixtures.

The decision follows a request from the Palestinian Football Association, submitted through the Football Association of Maldives (FAM), to hold the training camp in the Maldives due to ongoing conflict and instability in Palestine. Israeli attacks have made it impossible for Palestinian teams to train or play on home soil, forcing them to seek alternative arrangements abroad.

The camp is scheduled to take place from November 8 to 19, during which the Palestinian U-17 team will also play two friendly matches against the Maldives’ national youth team. The FAM is expected to announce the venue for the camp in the coming days.

Minister of Sports Abdulla Rafiu met with FAM President Ahmed Thoriq (Tom) today to finalize preparations and reaffirm the government's support.

“This is an important step toward strengthening the bonds between Palestine and the Maldives, and a meaningful way to support Palestinian athletes,” the Ministry said in a statement.

FAM President Tom also emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring the Palestinian team receives all necessary assistance during their stay.