In a landmark move, FIFA has approved a new pathway allowing Afghan women footballers living in exile to represent Afghanistan in official international competitions, without requiring clearance from the Taliban authorities.

The decision formally recognises the team known as Afghan Women United, which was formed by players who fled the country after the Taliban returned to power in 2021 and imposed a ban on women’s sports.

FIFA described the step as a “landmark governance decision,” stating that it allows the exiled players to compete as the official Afghanistan national women’s team in coordination with the global football body.

The move is being seen as a major boost for women athletes from Afghanistan, many of whom have continued training and organising despite displacement and restrictions back home.