Football Association of Maldives (FAM) has approved the promotion of New Radiant Sports Club, one of the country’s most popular and fan-friendly teams, to the first division.

In a statement, FAM explained that the decision followed the withdrawal of Super United Sports (SUS) from the Maldives Premier League before the start of the tournament. According to the regulations, when a club withdraws, the competition committee may consider the promotion of a second-division team.

The choice came down to New Radiant Sports Club and Tent Sports Club, both of whom had reached the semi-finals of the second division. After reviewing the sporting criteria, the committee decided to award promotion to New Radiant.

The club has strengthened its squad with several well-known players, including former national team stars Ali Ashfaq, Ali Fasir, Hasan Raif Ahmed, Mohamed Irufan, and defender Mohamed Nizam. Rising talent Ahunaf Rashid has also joined the line-up. Former national player Ali Suzain has been appointed as head coach.

While the decision has sparked some criticism, with claims that the promotion was “unfair”, New Radiant Chairman Ahmed Mubeen defended the move, stating that the club had previously faced relegation and deserved another opportunity in the top flight.

The team is now preparing to make its return to the Maldives Premier League, with fans eagerly awaiting their first appearance back in the top division.