FIFA Suspends All Nepal Football Association Over Governance Issues

FIFA has suspended the All Nepal Football Association (ANFA) due to serious violations of its statutes linked to third-party interference. This suspension, effective immediately, halts all international participation for Nepal's national teams and clubs, along with access to FIFA and AFC funding. The decision follows a prolonged governance dispute within Nepali football. FIFA's statement emphasizes the responsibilities of member associations and warns against any sporting agreements with ANFA during this period. The suspension can be lifted before the next FIFA Congress, pending further developments.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 25, 2026, 14:04 IST

FIFA Takes Action Against ANFA

Photo: IANS

Lausanne, June 25: The International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) has announced the immediate suspension of the All Nepal Football Association (ANFA) due to breaches of FIFA Statutes related to third-party interference.

This decision follows a lengthy conflict regarding the management of football in Nepal. Previously, the National Sports Council of Nepal had imposed a three-month suspension on ANFA, which was later lifted.

According to FIFA's statement, "The Bureau of the Council has decided to suspend the All Nepal Football Association immediately due to serious violations of the FIFA Statutes concerning third-party interference, as outlined in article 14 paragraphs 1(i) and 3 of the FIFA Statutes."

As a result, starting from June 24, 2026, ANFA has forfeited all membership rights defined in article 13 of the FIFA Statutes until further notice. Consequently, representatives and club teams from ANFA are barred from participating in international competitions until the suspension is revoked.

This suspension prevents Nepal's national teams and clubs from competing in events organized by FIFA or the Asian Football Confederation (AFC). Additionally, ANFA and its officials will lose access to funding from FIFA and AFC.

Furthermore, this suspension implies that ANFA and its members cannot benefit from any development programs, training, or courses provided by FIFA or the AFC. FIFA has also cautioned affiliates against engaging in any sporting agreements with ANFA or its teams during the suspension period.

Lastly, FIFA noted that the Bureau of the Council or the FIFA Council has the authority to lift this suspension at any time before the next FIFA Congress, and they will provide updates if this occurs.

According to article 14 of the FIFA Statutes, which pertains to the obligations of member associations, any breach of these obligations can result in sanctions, even if the third-party influence was not directly the fault of the member association. Each member association is accountable to FIFA for any actions taken by its members due to gross negligence or willful misconduct.