Sports Ministry Submits Land Request for Racing Track
Minister of Sports, Fitness and Recreation Abdulla Rafiu has revealed that a formal request for land allocation to develop a racing track has been submitted to the Ministry of Housing, Land and Urban Development.
This move follows the government’s revocation of permission for racing and drifting activities in Hulhumalé after a fatal accident on Thursday night.
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The accident, which resulted in the death of a young prison officer, occurred when a sports car collided with the motorcycle he was riding. In light of this incident, the government has taken steps to reassess the safety of current racing and drifting activities.
During a press conference held at the President’s Office yesterday, Minister Rafiu stated that he had met with senior officials from both the racing and drifting associations to address their concerns. The discussion also focused on whether the existing venues meet appropriate health and safety standards.
“Our team has been assigned to investigate this matter. Whatever the sport, the environment should be safe for both participants and spectators,” Rafiu stated.
The minister reiterated that the government is committed to ensuring the safety of all involved and is looking into measures to improve current practices. “The meeting was held to explore what could be done to achieve that goal,” he added.
Developing a dedicated racing and drifting track is a key pledge of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu. According to Minister Rafiu, construction will commence as soon as suitable land is allocated for the project.
Gov’t to Build New Football Stadium in Hulhumale’
Minister Rafiu also announced that the government will construct a new football stadium in Hulhumale’.
The previous administration had proposed demolishing the existing National Football Stadium in Galolhu ward, Male’, to make way for a modern facility funded by Indian aid. However, the current government has opted for a new location in Hulhumale’ for the stadium.
Former Sports Minister Ahmed Mahloof had earlier outlined plans for a new stadium at the Galolhu site, with support from India. However, Minister Rafiu explained at a press conference yesterday that the current location no longer meets the necessary requirements for a national stadium, citing issues related to security, parking, and other factors. Consequently, the decision has been made to build the stadium in Hulhumale’.
Rafiu also mentioned that the new facility might include an athletics track and function as a multi-sports indoor complex. Additionally, the government plans to develop synthetic tracks, volleyball and basketball courts, and table tennis halls across various regions of the country as part of this project.
While the new stadium will be built in Hulhumale’, there are no immediate plans to demolish the existing Galolhu National Stadium. Instead, the government intends to initiate renovations at the Galolhu site once the new stadium is completed.
