FIFA has taken a historic decision to allow a women’s football team composed of Afghan refugees to participate in international competitions. The move marks a significant step for players who were forced to leave Afghanistan following political changes in the country. The team will compete under the name Afghan Women United.
The decision was approved during a FIFA Council meeting held in Vancouver. Officials amended regulations to recognize the refugee-based team as a representative side. The approval gives the squad official status as a national-level women’s team under special circumstances.
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FIFA stated that the team will now be able to compete in international fixtures as an official women’s side. However, it will not be eligible to qualify for the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil. It may, however, participate in qualifying rounds for future tournaments including the 2028 Olympics.
The players involved left Afghanistan nearly five years ago after restrictions on women’s sports increased. Since then, they have been training and competing as a refugee-based squad. FIFA said the decision reflects support for athletes in exceptional situations.
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The FIFA president described the move as an important milestone for women’s football. He said the initiative aims to support players who cannot represent their national associations under normal conditions. Officials called it a step toward greater inclusion in global football.