Football fever is set to ignite Baa Atoll as the Lacquer Island Football Championship kicks off from 8th September to 15th September 2026. Hosted by the Thulhaadhoo Council and organized by Nauvin Investments, this week-long tournament promises intense pitch battles, island pride, and high-energy community celebrations.
Four formidably stacked clubs will compete for regional supremacy:
- FC Billoori
- Kafama United
- Club Tholhiheley
- Team Advantage
With every squad looking to cement its dominance early in the tournament, the local pitch will serve as the epicenter of thrilling sport as players leave everything on the grass.
More Than a Game: Celebrating Thulhaadhoo’s Heritage
While the tournament showcases world-class local athletic talent, its name—Lacquer Island—pays tribute to the unique cultural identity of the host island.
Located approximately 120 kilometers northwest of Malé in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, Thulhaadhoo is world-renowned as the last traditional stronghold of Maldivian lacquerware craftsmanship (liyelaa jehun). For centuries, master artisans on the island have passed down the complex art of shaping wooden pieces and layering them with vibrant natural resins and intricate etched patterns—a tradition that once supplied royal courts across the Indian Ocean.
Beyond its rich artisan heritage, Thulhaadhoo is known for its close-knit community of around 3,000 residents, vibrant fishing culture, and pristine turquoise waters ideal for marine exploration.
Events like the Lacquer Island Football Championship highlight the perfect blend of Thulhaadhoo’s celebrated traditions and modern passion for sport, drawing local supporters, neighboring islanders, and visitors together for an unforgettable week.
