The Aquatic Sports Association of Malta (ASA) has issued a firm response following the sudden resignation and subsequent public comments made by former National Water Polo Team Head Coach Milan Cirovic.

The statement, released directly by the ASA President, aims to clarify the association’s position following Cirovic’s appearance on the water polo talk show MANUP+. While acknowledging Cirovic’s professional service, the president highlighted the intense external pressures, match-manipulation allegations, and political maneuvering that have recently plagued the sport.

Key Takeaways from the President’s Statement

• Full Support Given: The ASA insists that Coach Milan Cirovic enjoyed full professional backing throughout his tenure to protect him and the athletes from external speculation.
• Match-Fixing Allegations: The president addressed severe, unproven public rumors regarding match manipulation, noting that they caused immense distress to the national team players and their families.
• MGA Confidential Report Leak: The ASA expressed deep concern over a confidential Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) report—requested by the Malta Police—that was leaked to the press, and called for an official investigation into the source of the leak.
• Executive Action: The issues raised by Cirovic regarding internal politics and external influences will be placed at the top of the agenda for the upcoming ASA Executive meeting.

Protecting the Legacy of Maltese Water Polo

The president strongly condemned attempts to tarnish the reputation of Maltese aquatic sports, framing the intense scrutiny as an unfortunate byproduct of the sport’s recent international success.

“No sporting organisation should become hostage to personal agendas, factional interests, political manoeuvring or external pressure.”

Despite the administrative turmoil, the ASA emphasized that the national team programs have seen unprecedented growth and competitive success over the last three years. The association reiterated its commitment to protecting its long-term development pathways, athletes, and clubs from outside interference.