FIFA suspends Nepal over third-party interference

Nepal's national football team has been barred from all international competitions after world football's governing body, FIFA, suspended the All Nepal Football Association (ANFA). The suspension, effective immediately, stems from what FIFA describes as "undue interference by a third party" in the governance of Nepali football.

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to suspend ANFA with immediate effect due to flagrant violations of the FIFA Statutes

FIFA's decision, communicated in a letter from Secretary General Mattias Grafstrom, cited "flagrant violations of the FIFA Statutes." The core issue revolves around the conflict between ANFA and Nepal's National Sports Council, a government sports administration body. FIFA maintains that national football associations must operate independently of government entities.

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The suspension is an issue of grave concern; we are consulting with all stakeholders to lift the suspension, keeping Nepal’s football in priority.

This is not the first time ANFA has faced FIFA's scrutiny. The council had previously suspended ANFA in March 2026 for three months while the association was preparing for elections agreed upon by FIFA and the Asian Football Confederation. Although the suspension was later lifted in May, the required elective congress has been repeatedly delayed. The sports council has issued directives, including amendments to ANFA's statutes under the country's sports development act, which FIFA views as interference.

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It impacts our players, barring them from opportunities and dampens dreams of aspiring players.

The suspension has significant consequences for Nepali football. It means Nepal cannot participate in international matches and will lose access to FIFA development programs, courses, and training. ANFA spokesman Suresh Shah expressed grave concern, stating, "It impacts our players, barring them from opportunities and dampens dreams of aspiring players." He added that stakeholders are consulting on ways to lift the suspension with Nepal's football prioritized. Ram Charitra Mehta, a member secretary of the National Sports Council, commented that the government did not intend for this outcome and is seeking alternative solutions.

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The government never wanted this… we are looking for alternative ways to address this crisis.