FIFA suspends All Nepal Football Association over third-party interference

All Nepal Football Association (ANFA) has got suspension from FIFA with immediate effect after the violations of involving the third-party interference. The decision, which came into effect on June 24, 2026, marks a major setback for Nepali football.

FIFA's statutes require all member associations to operate independently and without influence from external entities, including governments, courts, or political bodies.

According to FIFA, ANFA failed to meet those standards, prompting the suspension.

Official Statement

In an official statement, FIFA said the action was taken in accordance with Articles 14 and 16 of its statutes, which deal with the obligations of member associations and the consequences of non-compliance."The Bureau of the Council also decided to suspend the All Nepal Football Association with immediate effect due to flagrant violations of the FIFA Statutes linked to interference by a third party in accordance with article 14 paragraphs 1(i) and 3 of the FIFA Statutes," FIFA said in a statement."Consequently, with effect from 24 June 2026, ANFA has lost all of its membership rights, as defined in article 13 of the FIFA Statutes, until further notice.

ANFA representative and club teams are therefore no longer entitled to take part in international competitions until the suspension is lifted," it said in a circular.

National teams and clubs barred from FIFA

As a result of the suspension, ANFA has lost all membership rights with immediate effect. Nepal's national teams and clubs are now barred from participating in any FIFA or AFC competitions until the ban is lifted. The suspension also cuts off ANFA and its officials from development grants, training programmes, educational courses, and other forms of support provided by FIFA and the AFC.FIFA further instructed its member associations and affiliated bodies not to engage in any sporting activities or official contact with ANFA or its teams while the suspension remains in place.Despite the severity of the sanction, FIFA noted that the suspension is not necessarily permanent. The Bureau of the FIFA Council or the FIFA Council itself can revoke the ban at any time before the next FIFA Congress if the issues leading to the suspension are resolved. "Finally, the Bureau of the Council or the FIFA Council may lift this suspension at any time before the next FIFA Congress takes place. Should this occur, we will inform you accordingly," it added.