Football is one of the most popular sports in Malta, with a rich history that dates back to the mid-19th century. The Malta Football Association, founded in 1900, is one of the oldest football governing bodies in the world. The sport is enjoyed by people of all ages and is played in various locations throughout the country.
Whether you are a seasoned football player or a casual fan, Malta offers a range of opportunities to get involved in the sport. From local leagues and tournaments to international matches, there is something for everyone. The country boasts a number of well-maintained football pitches and stadiums, including the Ta’ Qali National Stadium, which is the largest stadium on the island.
For those looking to learn more about football in Malta, this guide provides a comprehensive overview of the sport in the country. From the history of football in Malta to the top teams and players, this guide covers everything you need to know to fully appreciate the beautiful game in this Mediterranean island nation.
Football Clubs in Malta
Premier League
The Maltese Premier League is the highest level of football in Malta. It consists of 14 teams, with the season running from August to May. The current champions are Hibernians, who won their 13th title in the 2021/22 season. Valletta FC, with 25 titles, have the largest fanbase in Malta.
Other notable clubs in the Premier League include Floriana, the oldest club in Malta, and Sliema Wanderers, who have won the title a record 26 times. Balzan, Birkirkara, Gżira United, and Ħamrun Spartans are also established clubs in the league.
First Division
Beneath the Premier League is the First Division, which consists of 12 teams. The winners of the First Division are promoted to the Premier League, while the bottom two teams are relegated to the Second Division.
Some of the notable clubs in the First Division include Gudja United, who were promoted to the Premier League for the first time in their history in the 2019/20 season, and Pietà Hotspurs, who have a strong youth academy and have produced several players who have gone on to play in the Premier League.
The First Division is also home to several clubs with a rich history, such as Mosta, who have been in existence since 1935, and Qormi, who were founded in 1961.
Football Competitions in Malta
Maltese Premier League
The Maltese Premier League is the top professional football league in Malta. It is contested by 14 teams and runs from August to May. The team that finishes top of the league is crowned champions and qualifies for the UEFA Champions League, while the teams that finish second and third qualify for the UEFA Europa Conference League. The bottom two teams are relegated to the Maltese First Division.
The most successful team in the history of the Maltese Premier League is Valletta FC, who have won the title 25 times. Other successful teams include Sliema Wanderers, Floriana, and Hibernians.
Maltese FA Trophy
The Maltese FA Trophy is the premier knockout cup competition in Maltese football. It is contested by teams from the Maltese Premier League and the Maltese First Division, as well as some amateur teams. The competition runs from September to May, with the final played at the National Stadium in Ta’ Qali.
Valletta FC are also the most successful team in the history of the Maltese FA Trophy, having won it 14 times. Other successful teams include Floriana, Sliema Wanderers, and Hibernians.
Overall, football is a hugely popular sport in Malta, with a strong professional league and a rich history of success in both domestic and international competitions.
Malta National Team
The Malta national football team represents Malta in international football and is controlled by the Malta Football Association, the governing body for football in Malta. The team played its first official game in 1957, a 3-2 defeat in a friendly against Austria. Their competitive debut arrived five years later, playing against Denmark in the 1962 UEFA European Championship qualifiers.
Over the years, the Malta national team has struggled to make a significant impact in international football. They have never qualified for a major international tournament, such as the FIFA World Cup or the UEFA European Championship. However, the team has managed to achieve some notable victories, including a 1-0 win over Hungary in 2006 and a 2-1 win over Faroe Islands in 2019.
The Malta national team plays its home matches at the Ta’ Qali National Stadium, which has a capacity of 17,797 spectators. The stadium was opened in 1980 and has undergone several renovations over the years to meet international standards. In addition to hosting the Malta national team, the stadium is also the home ground of several Maltese football clubs, including Birkirkara FC and Mosta FC.
Despite their lack of success on the international stage, the Malta national team remains an important part of Maltese football culture. The team has a dedicated fan base and continues to inspire young footballers across the country to pursue their dreams of playing at the highest level. With the support of the Malta Football Association and the wider football community in Malta, the national team will continue to strive for success on the international stage.
Football Facilities in Malta
National Stadium
The Ta’ Qali National Stadium is the largest stadium in Malta and serves as the home ground for the Maltese national team. The stadium was built in 1980 and has a capacity of 16,997 spectators. It is located in Ta’ Qali, a village in the centre of Malta. The stadium has undergone several renovations over the years, including the installation of a new hybrid grass pitch in 2016. The stadium is also used for other events such as concerts and conferences. It has hosted several international matches, including qualifiers for the FIFA World Cup and the UEFA European Championships.
Hibernians Stadium
The Hibernians Stadium is located in Paola, a town in the south of Malta. It is the home ground for Hibernians FC, one of the top clubs in Malta. The stadium has a capacity of 3,000 spectators and features a hybrid grass pitch. In addition to hosting football matches, the stadium is also used for other events such as music concerts and festivals. It has hosted several international matches, including qualifiers for the UEFA Champions League and the UEFA Europa League. Other Football Facilities Aside from the two main stadiums, there are several other football facilities in Malta that are used for training and matches. These include:
- The Centenary Stadium in Ta’ Qali, which has an artificial turf pitch and is used for training and matches
- The Victor Tedesco Stadium in Hamrun, which has a 5-a-side pitch and a sports bar
- The Luxol Stadium in Pembroke, which has a synthetic turf pitch and is used for training and matches
Overall, Malta has a good infrastructure for football, with several modern facilities that meet international standards. Whether you are a fan or a player, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the beautiful game in Malta.
Football Culture in Malta
Football is the most popular sport in Malta, and it is deeply ingrained in the country’s culture. The Maltese are passionate about the sport, and it is not uncommon to see people of all ages playing football in the streets and on the beaches. Football is also a popular topic of conversation, and it is a great way for people to connect and bond with each other.
The Maltese football culture is characterised by a strong sense of community and loyalty. Football clubs are often seen as an extension of the local community, and many people support their local team with great passion and pride. The atmosphere at football matches in Malta is electric, with fans singing and chanting throughout the game.
Football is also an important part of Maltese identity. The country has a long history of football, and the Malta Football Association was founded in 1900. The national team has had some success over the years, and Maltese footballers have played for clubs in countries such as Italy and England.
Football is not just a sport in Malta, but a way of life. The country has a number of football academies and training centres, which provide opportunities for young people to develop their skills and pursue a career in football. The Maltese government also recognises the importance of football, and has invested in the development of football infrastructure across the country.
Conclusion
Football in Malta is a popular sport with a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. The Malta Football Association, established in 1900, is one of the oldest governing bodies in the world. Over the years, the sport has grown in popularity and many Maltese clubs have achieved success both domestically and internationally.
Malta has a strong football culture, with many fans supporting their favourite teams with passion and enthusiasm. The sport is played at various levels, from amateur leagues to professional clubs, and there are many opportunities for players of all skill levels to get involved.
While football may not be the most high-profile sport in Malta, it is certainly one of the most beloved. With a dedicated fan base and a thriving league system, the future of football in Malta looks bright. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a newcomer to the sport, there’s no doubt that you’ll find plenty to love about football in Malta.
