FIFA Greenlights Afghan Women's National Team Return with First Matches Set for 2026

A Long-Awaited Breakthrough for Afghan Women Athletes

According to Главком: FIFA has approved rule changes that will allow the Afghan women's national football team to compete in official international tournaments again. This decision marks a major milestone for a squad originally formed after the evacuation of players following the Taliban's 2021 ban on women in sports. Their first matches are scheduled for June 2026. For context, the team has been operating in exile, with many members now residing in Australia after being airlifted out of Afghanistan.

The Taliban's return to power in Afghanistan in 2021 led to severe restrictions on women's rights, particularly in athletics. That same year, FIFA helped evacuate over 160 female players, officials, and human rights advocates from the country. Most of those evacuated players now live in Australia. The Afghan Women United initiative was established to support the team's comeback.

Boosting Women's Football in Afghanistan

FIFA has been actively promoting women's football development in Afghanistan by organizing training and selection camps in England and Australia. The organization notes it is currently supporting nearly 90 players, an essential step in rebuilding the team. However, the Afghan women's national team missed the qualification window for the 2027 World Cup in Brazil. Still, the new regulations give Afghan female footballers a chance to compete for a spot at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

Our team has always been a team of activists. This is a chance to showcase our skills and become a symbol of resilience for those women still inside Afghanistan who fight for their rights every day.

Khalida Popal

FIFA's decision to include the Afghan women's national team in international competitions sends a powerful message not only to the players but to all women in the country facing restrictions on their rights. The team's return to the football arena could serve as an inspiration for many and help draw attention to the situation of women's rights in Afghanistan. Support from international organizations and the global community may contribute to changes in a society that has endured significant hardships in recent years.