AFC to Develop Three Turf Pitches in Male', Says FAM President

The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) will assist in the development of three turf pitches in Male', according to Football Association of Maldives (FAM) President Ahmed Thoriq. Thoriq stated that the project, which has been proposed to and approved by the AFC, involves laying two pitches at the Maafannu Veli ground – where previous FAM mini turf pitches were located – and one at the severely damaged Maafannu Turf 2. Additionally, with government support, the turf at Maafannu Turf 1 will be replaced. The sub-base work for the three pitches will be carried out by FAM in collaboration with the government. Efforts are currently underway to clear a privately owned warehouse on the Veli ground site to allow construction to begin. First division clubs, which have been complaining about the poor condition of the existing turf, are expected to benefit significantly from these new facilities.