Darmanin Demajo concerned by changes to the UEFA solidarity funds distribution scheme  in Maltese football

Norman Darmanin Demajo has been confirmed as president of the Youth Football Association (Youth FA) for another four-year term during the 2025 General Assembly, held last week at the Centenary Hall.

Joe Cassar will continue in his role as vice-president, also for the next four years. Representing youth nurseries on the association’s Council are Marlor Caruana (Marsaskala), Mario Grima (Rabat Ajax), and Clayton Oliva (Fgura United).

In his address to delegates, Darmanin Demajo expressed gratitude for their continued support and reaffirmed the Youth FA’s commitment to being an open and dynamic organisation.

“Our mission remains to nurture grassroots football by creating accessible, inclusive, and enjoyable experiences for everyone,” he said.

However, the Youth FA president voiced concern over changes to the UEFA solidarity funds distribution scheme in Maltese football which this season was fully administered by the Malta Premier League.

Although the total allocation has increased from €1.08 million to €2.35 million, Darmanin Demajo pointed out that nurseries of clubs outside the Premier League and Challenge League have been negatively impacted.

“These funds are primarily intended to support youth development,” he stressed.

“As president of the Youth FA, it is my duty to speak out when decisions have an adverse effect on our nurseries. While we are not involved in the decision-making process, we have every right to make our voices heard.

“The principle of solidarity was the cornerstone of the previous UEFA solidarity model in Maltese football, ensuring a fair and inclusive distribution of funds across all levels of the game – including youth nurseries and the Gozo FA.

“However, the newly introduced criteria for the 2024–2027 cycle have significantly altered this framework. Despite these changes, the Youth FA remains fully committed to upholding the spirit of solidarity within Maltese football.

“We are disappointed that the Youth FA, as the official representative body for youth nurseries in Malta, was not consulted in this process. Looking ahead, we strongly urge the Malta Premier League and all relevant stakeholders to come together to explore alternative funding avenues for the remaining nurseries who play a vital role in the grassroots of Maltese football and are essential for maintaining future eligibility under this scheme.”

At the start of the Assembly, Darmanin Demajo paid tribute to the late Alfred Cacciottolo, former Youth FA Treasurer, who passed away earlier this year.

Remembering him as a man of integrity and deep passion for youth football, he acknowledged Cacciottolo’s key role in initiating the transition from gravel pitches to artificial turf at club facilities.