Zurich, April 29, 2026: World football’s governing body, FIFA, has approved a historic rule change allowing Afghanistan’s women footballers to represent their country in official international matches, in a move widely described as unprecedented in global sport.
The decision by the FIFA Council enables Afghan female players — including members of the FIFA-supported Afghan Women United team — to participate in international fixtures despite the country’s football federation being unable to field a women’s side.
Under the new framework, FIFA, in coordination with the Asian Football Confederation, can establish and approve a national or representative team in exceptional circumstances when a member association is unable to do so.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino called the move “a powerful and unprecedented step,” saying it reflects the organisation’s commitment to ensuring that players are not excluded from international football due to circumstances beyond their control.
“By enabling Afghan women to compete for their country in official matches, we are turning principles into action,” he said.
The reform follows years of restrictions on women’s sports in Afghanistan after the Taliban returned to power in 2021, effectively barring female athletes from organised football within the country.
As part of its broader support strategy, FIFA had already helped create Afghan Women United — a team providing opportunities for Afghan players living abroad. With the new rule in place, these players will now be able to represent Afghanistan in officially recognised competitions for the first time.
The decision has been welcomed by members of an independent advisory group backing the initiative. Nadia Nadim, who has earned over 100 international caps for Denmark, said the move recognises Afghan women players “as elite athletes with the right to compete.”
Former Afghanistan captain Khalida Popal described the development as a moment of identity and hope.
“Representing your country is about identity, dignity and hope. This shows what is possible when sport is guided by values,” she said.
Human rights advocate Andrea Florence added that the reform sets a global precedent, demonstrating how governing bodies can adapt rules to address extraordinary situations.
While the amendment takes immediate effect, FIFA will now oversee key administrative and logistical arrangements, including team registration and the creation of a competitive structure.
The organisation has committed financial, technical, and operational support to ensure a safe and sustainable pathway for the team. Support programmes for Afghan Women United players are expected to continue for up to two years.
The team is scheduled to hold its next training camp in New Zealand from June 1 to 9, where it is expected to play a friendly match against the Cook Islands women’s national team.
