Public Service Media (PSM) has officially launched its coverage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, setting the stage for what is expected to be one of the most widely followed sporting events in the Maldives this year. The launch ceremony, held at PSM’s TV Building, brought together senior government officials, sports administrators and media executives, reflecting the national significance of the tournament and the strong institutional support behind this year’s broadcast plans.
The ceremony was attended by Minister of Youth Empowerment, Sports and Fitness Abdulla Rafiu, alongside Commissioner of Sports Mohamed Tholal, Football Association of Maldives (FAM) President Ahmed Thariq, PSM Managing Director Ahmed Shakeeb and Deputy Managing Director Abdulla Yameen. Their presence highlighted the close collaboration between the country’s public broadcaster, sports authorities and industry stakeholders in preparing to deliver comprehensive World Cup coverage to audiences throughout the Maldives.
During the event, PSM presented details of its World Cup programming, including dedicated match analysis shows, presenters and analysts who will guide viewers through the tournament. The broadcaster also announced a series of public engagement activities and interactive programmes designed to build anticipation and deepen fan participation in the lead-up to and during the competition. These initiatives are expected to create a stronger connection between the event and local audiences, while further strengthening football’s broad appeal across the country.
A notable feature of the ceremony was the unveiling of the tournament’s official match ball, “Trionda,” by the Sports Minister, the FAM President and PSM’s Managing Director. The presentation formed a symbolic highlight of the launch and added to the festive atmosphere surrounding the start of PSM’s World Cup campaign. The event underscored the excitement already building among football supporters as the Maldives prepares to join millions of fans around the world in following the competition.
PSM and MediaNet also announced that viewers with a MediaNet connection anywhere in the Maldives will be able to watch the FIFA World Cup free of charge through PSM channels. This is the first time viewers in the Maldives will be able to enjoy the World Cup without additional viewing costs, an announcement that is expected to significantly expand access to the tournament and allow more households and communities to be part of the global football celebration. The decision reflects a broader effort to make major international sporting events more accessible to the public and to ensure that fans across the country can share in the experience together.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada, will feature 48 teams, making it the largest edition of the tournament to date. With the scale of the competition set to grow, PSM’s plans indicate a strong commitment to delivering a viewing experience that is both inclusive and engaging for audiences nationwide. By extending the World Cup atmosphere beyond television screens to homes, public viewing areas and big-screen venues across the Maldives, PSM aims to create an environment in which communities can come together to celebrate the sport and enjoy the tournament as a shared national experience.
As preparations continue, PSM’s launch signals a confident start to what is expected to be an exciting World Cup season for Maldivian viewers. With expanded programming, free nationwide access through MediaNet-connected households and a clear emphasis on public participation, this year’s coverage is positioned to bring the excitement of the world’s biggest football event closer than ever to fans across the Maldives.
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