FIFA OKs creation of Afghanistan women's refugee team

Field Level Media|published: 05/09/2025, 2:32pm EDT

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