Fifa has approved a rule change allowing Afghan women footballers to play official international matches in its competitions, giving players exiled since the Taliban's return to power a route back to the sport. The decision follows the creation of Afghan Women United, a team supported by Fifa that provides structured playing opportunities for Afghan women footballers living outside the country.
Background of the Rule Change
The Afghan women's national team has not played an official competitive international since before the Taliban returned to power in 2021. The Taliban authorities have imposed sweeping restrictions on women and girls, including limitations affecting education, work, and sport, forcing many female athletes to flee the country or abandon competition. The rule change builds on Fifa's Strategy for Action for Afghan Women's Football, endorsed by the Fifa Council in May last year.
Fifa President's Statement
“We are proud of the beautiful journey initiated by Afghan Women United, and with this initiative, we aim to enable them, as well as other Fifa member associations that may not be able to register a national or representative team for a Fifa competition, to make the next step, in coordination with the relevant confederation,” Fifa president Gianni Infantino said.
Selection and Upcoming Matches
The selection phase for the next Afghan Women United squad is under way, with Fifa hosting regional selection camps in England and Australia and providing individual support packages to nearly 90 players. Afghan Women United are expected to play their next matches during the June women's international window, with details of opponents and venues to be announced.
Fifa's Previous Efforts
In 2021, Fifa helped evacuate more than 160 at-risk players, officials, and human rights defenders connected to football and basketball in Afghanistan. Women's football advocates have repeatedly urged Fifa to formally recognise and support Afghan women players in exile, arguing they should not be denied international careers because of restrictions imposed inside Afghanistan.
The rule change offers a lifeline for Afghan women’s refugee team to rejoin international football, ensuring that talented players can continue their sporting careers despite the challenging circumstances in their home country.
