Daijiworld Media Network – Kathmandu

Kathmandu, Jun 25: World football governing body FIFA has suspended the All-Nepal Football Association (ANFA) with immediate effect, preventing Nepal's national teams and clubs from participating in international competitions until further notice.

In an official communication, FIFA stated that the decision was taken by the Bureau of the FIFA Council on June 24 in accordance with Article 16 of the FIFA Statutes.

As a result of the suspension, Nepal's national teams and clubs will be ineligible to compete in tournaments organised by FIFA and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC). The suspension also cuts ANFA off from FIFA and AFC development programmes, training initiatives and educational courses.

"ANFA has lost all of its membership rights as defined in Article 13 of the FIFA Statutes until further notice," FIFA said in its statement.

The governing body further clarified that ANFA, its members and officials would not be entitled to receive any benefits from FIFA or AFC programmes during the suspension period. FIFA also advised its member associations and affiliated organisations not to engage in any sporting contact with ANFA or its teams while the suspension remains in force.

The move represents a significant setback for football development in Nepal, affecting both national and club-level participation on the international stage.

However, FIFA indicated that the suspension could be lifted if the issues that led to the sanction are resolved.

"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," the statement added.

The suspension is expected to impact Nepal's upcoming international fixtures and football development activities until the matter is resolved.