FIFA has officially approved the creation of the Afghanistan women’s refugee football team, marking a historic moment for displaced female athletes around the world.

The newly sanctioned team, composed of Afghan women players who fled the country after the Taliban’s return to power, will be allowed to participate in FIFA-sanctioned friendly matches and tournaments under a one-year pilot program.

⚽ FIFA Refugee Team Approval: A First of Its Kind

FIFA has confirmed that the Afghanistan women’s refugee team will operate under its jurisdiction for an initial 12-month period. The initiative could become a model for other stateless or displaced athletes to gain international recognition.

Gianni Infantino, President of FIFA, called the announcement a “landmark” and emphasized:

“FIFA is committed to giving every girl the opportunity to play football.”

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🚫 Taliban Ban on Women’s Sports Spurs Global Call to Action

Afghanistan’s original women’s national team has not played since 2018, and the Taliban-controlled Afghan Football Federation (AFF) currently does not recognize any women’s teams. Since the Taliban’s 2021 return, all women’s sports in Afghanistan have been banned, and girls have been barred from education — actions the United Nations has described as “gender apartheid.”

This repression prompted international efforts to protect Afghan female athletes. FIFA says it coordinated the evacuation of around 160 individuals in 2021, 70% of whom were women and children, including players.

🌐 A New Path for Afghan Players in Exile

Many of the players are now based in Australia, the United Kingdom, and other European nations. With FIFA’s backing, this refugee team represents a crucial step in restoring these athletes’ right to represent their heritage on the global football stage.

While the team awaits final approval from the FIFA Council, this pilot project offers hope for broader refugee team inclusion in world football.