FIFA OKs creation of Afghanistan women's refugee team
Mar 4, 2025; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; A general view of the official game ball during the second half in the match between Tigres UANL and FC Cincinnati at TQL Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images FIFA has approved the creation of an Afghanistan women's refugee team that will compete in matches overseen by the world governing body.
According to FIFA, the team -- composed of female players of Afghan nationality who obtained refugee status abroad -- would first operate under a one-year pilot phase, which will help the organization determine the long-term viability of the program.
The FIFA Council must approve the team's establishment. Gianni Infantino, president of FIFA, called the approval a "landmark" moment, adding that "FIFA is committed to giving every girl the possibility to play football."
FIFA regulations require teams to receive recognition by a national federation in order to compete. The Afghan Football Federation, however, has not acknowledged its women's teams, in fact banning all women's sports across the country.
Afghanistan has not had a women's side compete in an official match since 2018.
--Field Level Media
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