RUZAIK FAROOK
COLOMbO : The Embassy of Saudi Arabia was crowned champions of the Diplomatic Futsal Cup 2026 after defeating the Maldives 4–3 on penalties at the Diplomatic Futsal Cup 2026 held on Saturday September 26 at the Maldives Cultural Centre (MCC), Sosun Villa, Colombo,
The High Commission of the Republic of Maldives in Colombo successfully hosted the tournament bringing together members of the diplomatic community for a day of sport, friendship and fellowship under the theme “UNITED ON THE PITCH – CONNECTED BEYOND BORDERS.”
The Champions Trophy was presented to the winning Saudi Arabian team by the Chief Guest, Abdulla Rafiu, Minister of Youth Empowerment, Sports and Fitness of the Republic of Maldives.
The tournament brought together teams representing Maldives, Palestine, Pakistan, Malaysia, Libya, the United States of America, Japan and Saudi Arabia, with diplomatic and mission staff competing in a spirit of teamwork, sportsmanship and friendly competition.
The event attracted approximately 500 participants and guests, including heads of Mission, diplomats, mission staff, families and invited guests.
Saudi Arabia’s Mohamed Makki received the Best Goalkeeper award, while his teammate Yassine Elhamdani was named Best Player. Japan’s representative received the Man of the Match award, and the Fair Play Award went to the USA team.
Engaging with participating teams, were Heads of Mission, diplomats and guests. A number of Heads of Mission also took part in the competition and remained at the venue throughout the day, adding to the spirit of camaraderie and making the tournament a truly collective occasion for the diplomatic community.
Beyond the matches, the tournament provided a family-friendly atmosphere with activities for children and a variety of food stalls offering African, Middle Eastern, South Asian, Caribbean and Maldivian cuisine. These activities provided participants and guests with opportunities to interact informally, experience different cultures and enjoy the occasion together.
The Diplomatic Futsal Cup 2026 provided an opportunity for members of the diplomatic community to connect beyond the formal setting of official engagements, demonstrating how sport can foster friendship, mutual respect, teamwork and people-to-people connections.
The successful conclusion of the tournament marks a new initiative by the High Commission of Maldives to encourage greater interaction and fellowship among the diplomatic community in Sri Lanka.
Member of Parliament, Republic of Maldives Ahmed Xamyr , High Commissioner of Republic of Maldives Masood Imad, Diplomats from Indonesia, Pakistan, Korea, Brazil and Bangladesh distributed awards and certificates to the winners.
