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FIFA Empowers Afghan Women Soccer Players Amid Taliban Restrictions

KVIA•Thursday, April 30, 2026 at 2:45 PM•CNN

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AI Summary

In a groundbreaking decision, FIFA has amended its regulations to allow Afghan women soccer players to officially represent their country, despite the Taliban's influence over the national federation. This change, announced during a FIFA Council meeting in Vancouver, enables the Afghanistan women's national team to compete in international matches for the first time in years. The amendment was prompted by the Taliban's refusal to acknowledge women's sports, forcing players into exile. The team, previously known as Afghan Women United, is now recognized as the official national team, marking a significant step for women's rights in sports. Although they missed qualifying for the 2027 Women’s World Cup, they are set to prepare for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, with a training camp scheduled for June in New Zealand.

Key Details: • FIFA's decision allows Afghan women to compete in international matches. • The team will hold a training camp in New Zealand in June 2024. • Players can now participate in qualifying for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. • FIFA will provide support for up to two years to help the team transition.

soccer fifa women-sports afghanistan taliban

People & Organizations

FIFANew ZealandGianni InfantinoVancouverKhalida PopalZainab MozaffariCook IslandsFatima Yousufi

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