Libya Seeks Stronger International Cooperation to Develop Mini Football

Libya's Sports Minister Fawad Bragash has met with International Mini Football Federation President Mohammed Al-Dosari to discuss expanding bilateral cooperation and advancing the development of mini football across the country. The meeting marks a significant step in Libya's broader strategy to diversify its sporting landscape and integrate more deeply into the international sports community.

Main Facts and Key Details

During the meeting, Minister Bragash outlined Libya's ambition to benefit from international expertise in mini football, a fast-growing variant of the sport played with smaller teams on reduced-size pitches. He emphasized that developing this discipline is part of a wider national effort to support all sporting disciplines and create new opportunities for Libyan athletes. Bragash also stressed Libya's goal of becoming a destination for hosting international mini football tournaments, which would boost the country's global sporting profile and provide local players with exposure to higher levels of competition.

Reactions and Context

The push for mini football development aligns with the Ministry of Sports' recently announced "100-Day Plan," which prioritizes youth sector development, infrastructure improvement, and the training of young coaches through specialized programs. Minister Barghash has been active on the international stage, recently signing a memorandum of understanding with Turkey during the 8th International Conference on Traditional Sports in Antalya. That MoU aims to establish a practical framework for cooperation in various sports fields, including personnel training and expertise exchange. These efforts reflect a governmental vision based on openness to international experiences and building effective sports partnerships.

Challenges and Outlook

Despite the enthusiasm, Libya faces several challenges in developing mini football, including the need for dedicated facilities, certified coaches, and structured domestic leagues. The country's sports infrastructure has suffered from years of underinvestment, and rebuilding it requires sustained funding and international support. However, the engagement with the International Mini Football Federation signals a clear political will to move forward. If successful, the initiative could open doors for Libya to host regional and international mini football events, positioning the country as an emerging hub for the sport in North Africa.

As Libya continues to expand its international sports partnerships, the development of mini football represents a fresh avenue for youth engagement and athletic excellence, complementing the nation's traditional strengths in football, handball, and basketball.