Malta’s first-ever FIFA Arena mini-football pitch was officially opened on Monday morning at Maria Regina College Primary School in St Paul’s Bay.
This pitch is part of a global FIFA project launched by President Gianni Infantino. The goal is to build 1,000 small football pitches around the world, giving children safe and welcoming spaces to play, learn, and grow, while also helping to develop football and education in local communities.
Maria Regina College was chosen because of its large and diverse student body, with around 700 children from 51 different nationalities.
The inauguration was attended by FIFA President Gianni Infantino, Malta FA President, Minister for Education, Sport, Youth, Research and Innovation Dr Clifton Grima, Parliamentary Secretary for Public Works Omar Farrugia, head of school Victoria Spiteri, and St Paul’s Bay Mayor Censu Galea.
Also present were Italian football legends Fabio Cannavaro and Christian Vieri, giving students a chance to meet two famous names in world football.
During the event, President Infantino said it was a pleasure to be at the school for such an important launch. He called the pitch a key part of the global project and noted it coincides with the Malta FA’s 125th anniversary.
He said FIFA puts young people at the heart of football’s growth and that this pitch in Malta gives children a safe place to enjoy the game. He added that the aim of FIFA Arena is to involve millions of children worldwide, promote inclusion, and use football to drive positive change.
The Malta FA President said it was a special day for the association, especially with the FIFA President attending the event in person for the first time since the project began. He said grassroots football remains a top priority for the Malta FA and this pitch will give many young people the chance to play, connect, and break down barriers.
Minister Clifton Grima said the new pitch is a proud moment for education and sport in Malta. He said giving children access to quality sports facilities helps them learn teamwork, respect, and grow in an inclusive space.
Parliamentary Secretary Omar Farrugia spoke about the importance of providing modern, safe sports spaces for children. Reflecting on his own playing career with Mqabba and the Malta national team, he said football teaches life lessons and brings people together. He welcomed FIFA’s message that “Football Unites the World,” and said this project proves how sport can bring government, schools, and young people together.
The event ended with a short football match, letting the children enjoy their new pitch for the first time.
