The FIFA Council has approved an amendment to the FIFA Governance Regulations, permitting Afghan female players to participate in official international matches within FIFA competitions. This decision aims to prevent the exclusion of players from international football due to uncontrollable circumstances, aligning with FIFA’s principles of universality and non-discrimination. Afghan women’s team has not competed officially since the Taliban’s resurgence in 2021.
The amendment, effective immediately, will enable Afghan female players, including those from the FIFA-funded Afghan Women United squad, to represent their country in official international matches. FIFA President Gianni Infantino emphasized the significance of this amendment, highlighting the importance of inclusivity and support for Afghan female players in football.
In support of this initiative, the FIFA-funded and -supported team will conduct their upcoming training camp in New Zealand from 1 to 9 June, with a friendly match against the Cook Islands scheduled. FIFA will oversee the necessary administrative and preparatory procedures, such as team registration and the establishment of operational structures, to facilitate the participation of Afghan female players in official competitions.
Former Afghanistan captain Khalida Popal expressed gratitude towards FIFA for this groundbreaking decision, emphasizing the profound impact it will have on the players. This move not only signifies a significant milestone for Afghan female footballers but also underscores the power of unity in achieving positive change within the sport.
The recent amendment builds upon the FIFA Strategy for Action for Afghan Women’s Football, endorsed by the FIFA Council last year, and marks a pivotal moment for Afghan female players to gain official recognition and representation in international matches. The establishment of Afghan Women United as a FIFA-supported team has paved the way for structured playing opportunities for Afghan women footballers worldwide.
