FIFA Rule Change Revives Afghan Women’s Team

In a landmark decision for human rights and sports, FIFA has officially amended its regulations to allow Afghanistan’s exiled women footballers to participate in international competitions as a refugee-based representative team.

Since the Taliban’s return to power in 2021, women in Afghanistan have been barred from sports, education, and public life, forcing the national team to flee and live in exile.

The new rule change supports the “Afghan Women United” initiative, a FIFA-backed program that provides training and competition opportunities for players living abroad. Currently, selection camps are being held in England and Australia to scout talent among nearly 90 supported athletes.

This move ensures that these women are not denied their international football careers due to political circumstances beyond their control, with their first sanctioned matches expected to take place during the international window in June.