Football: FIFA allows Afghan refugee womens team to participate in international competitions despite Taliban opposition.

An amendment to the FIFA regulations, announced late Tuesday night, gives the FIFA Council the right to register a “national team or representative team in exceptional circumstances.”

Published on 29/04/2026 10:29, Reading time: 2min

A strong decision. The women’s team of Afghanistan will officially be able to compete in international tournaments again. Gathered in Vancouver (Canada) on Tuesday, April 28, the FIFA Council approved a regulation change that opens up this possibility. The amendment “gives the FIFA Council the power, in consultation with the relevant confederation, to proceed with the registration and/or approve the registration of a national team or representative team in exceptional circumstances when the relevant member association is unable to do so,” stated the press release of the organization.

Since their takeover in 2021, the Taliban do not recognize the women’s national team and ban them from competing. Most players have fled, mainly to Australia. Supported by FIFA since 2025, the Afghan Women United team brings together Afghan refugee players and has been able to play some friendly matches last spring and fall.

“In its commitment to protecting the right of every girl and woman to play football and fully assert themselves, FIFA has listened to and heard the players. By allowing Afghans to represent their country in official matches, we are turning words into action,” recalled Gianni Infantino, FIFA president. In May 2025, FIFA adopted an action plan in favor of women’s football in Afghanistan. The amendment passed on Tuesday is part of this initiative.

“With this decision, Afghan footballers are not considered victims of circumstances but as high-level players with the right to compete, be seen, and be respected,” praised Nadia Nadim, who was born in Afghanistan and has over 100 caps for the Denmark national team. Due to the administrative procedures to come for FIFA, and the “establishment of an operational and sports structure,” the organization expects a two-year transition period.

During this time, the team will receive “human, technical, and financial” support from FIFA “to ensure a safe, professional, and sustainable path to official competition.” The next gathering of Afghan Women United is scheduled from June 1st to 9th in New Zealand. The team will play a match against the Cook Islands. While participation in the 2027 World Cup is not possible, the players can still dream of taking part in the qualifications for the 2028 Olympic tournament.