Last-minute exit sparks outrage: parents slam Maldives’ sudden withdrawal from regional badminton championship
Maldives abruptly withdrew from the South Asian Junior Badminton Championship in Pakistan just hours before departure, citing regional geopolitical tensions. Parents expressed deep frustration over the last-minute decision, highlighting significant financial losses and the emotional toll on athletes who had already completed rigorous preparations. Despite the distribution of national jerseys, the sudden cancellation has left families seeking answers from the Badminton Association.
From the ceremony held to present jerseys to the Maldivian athletes participating in the tournament. | Sports Ministry | Ministry of Sports, Fitness and Recreation
Parents of young athletes have voiced deep concern following the Maldives’ eleventh-hour decision to withdraw from the South Asian Junior Badminton Championship scheduled to be held in Pakistan this year.
The tournament was slated to take place in Islamabad from 1 April 2026 to 7 April 2026. Maldives was set to be represented by 12 players across three age categories: Under-16, Under-19, and Under-23.
The Maldivian contingent was scheduled to depart on Sunday morning at 10am. However, parents were informed late Saturday night around 11pm, that the country would not participate. The reason cited for the sudden withdrawal was the ongoing geopolitical tensions and conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran.
Despite the explanation, parents expressed frustration over the timing of the decision. They pointed out that the regional conflict had been ongoing for some time, yet the withdrawal was made only at the last moment.
Parents highlighted the significant financial and personal sacrifices involved, particularly for children traveling from various islands to Malé City for the tournament. They also noted the difficulty and expense of securing foreign currency, specifically U.S. dollars during a period of high exchange rates, along with other logistical preparations.
Parents further emphasized that an earlier decision could have reduced both financial losses and emotional disappointment. They stressed that making such a call after weeks of rigorous preparation and substantial expenditure represents a major setback for the young athletes. It was also noted that official national jerseys had already been distributed to the players on Saturday, just hours before the cancellation.
Efforts to obtain an official comment from the Badminton Association regarding the matter have so far been unsuccessful.
