FIFA Suspends Nepal Over Third-Party Interference

FIFA has suspended Nepal from international football activities due to what it described as third-party interference in the administration of the country’s football federation.

The world football governing body announced that the decision followed concerns over the independence of the All Nepal Football Association (ANFA), stressing that member associations are required to manage their affairs without external influence in line with FIFA statutes.

According to FIFA, the suspension will remain in place until conditions are met to ensure the federation can operate independently and in compliance with its regulations. The sanction means Nepal’s national teams and clubs will be barred from participating in international competitions organised by FIFA and its affiliated confederations.

FIFA reiterated that political or external interference in the affairs of football associations undermines the integrity of the sport and violates the principles governing its member bodies. The organisation added that it remains open to working with stakeholders in Nepal to resolve the issues and restore normal operations.

The suspension is expected to affect Nepal’s football development programmes and international engagements, dealing a significant setback to players, clubs, and officials in the country.

FIFA has imposed similar sanctions on several national associations in the past where government involvement or outside influence was deemed to have compromised the autonomy of football administration.