FIFA has approved a landmark amendment to its governance regulations, paving the way for Afghan women footballers to compete in official international matches once again.
The decision marks a major breakthrough for players who have been sidelined since the Taliban’s return to power in 2021, effectively halting the activities of the national women’s team. The move aims to ensure athletes are not excluded from international football due to circumstances beyond their control, in line with FIFA’s principles of inclusion and non-discrimination.
Announcing the decision, FIFA president Gianni Infantino said the amendment would allow Afghan female players, including members of the FIFA-supported Afghan Women United squad, to represent their country in official competitions, in coordination with the Asian Football Confederation.
As part of the transition, the FIFA-backed squad will hold a training camp in New Zealand from June 1 to 9, where they are also scheduled to play matches against the Cook Islands.
While the rule change takes immediate effect, FIFA will now oversee the administrative rollout, including team registration and the creation of a formal operational and sporting structure. The governing body has also committed to providing comprehensive support, spanning technical, financial, and welfare resources, to ensure a safe and sustainable pathway back to competition.
Support packages for Afghan Women United players will remain in place for up to two years, helping the new framework stabilise while prioritising safeguarding and performance standards.
Former Afghanistan captain Khalida Popal described the move as transformative: “For these players, representing Afghanistan is about identity, dignity and hope. Thanks are due to the leadership of FIFA, which listened to their biggest request and delivered a solution that no other sport has ever achieved. This moment also shows that when we stand united, we can achieve more.”
The reform builds on FIFA’s Strategy for Action for Afghan Women’s Football, approved in 2025, and the creation of Afghan Women United, a team designed to provide structured opportunities for Afghan players living in exile. For the first time, these athletes will now be able to represent Afghanistan in officially recognised matches.