The International Federation of Association Football has approved a landmark rule change allowing Afghanistan's exiled women's football team to compete in official international matches without recognition from the Taliban-controlled national federation. Meeting in Vancouver, the governing council agreed to formally recognise the refugee squad, known as Afghan Women United, enabling it to represent Afghanistan despite the continued ban on women's sport inside the country.

The original national team, founded in 2007, was dismantled after the Taliban returned to power in 2021, forcing many players to flee amid sweeping restrictions on women and girls. More than 160 athletes and sports officials were evacuated with support from the global governing body, and players have since been scattered across Australia, Europe, the United States and the Middle East. Advocacy from athletes and human rights groups led to the formation of Afghan Women United, which has received structured support, training camps and international playing opportunities.

Previously, international rules required approval from a country's domestic football authority for national team participation, effectively blocking the exiled players. The new exception removes that barrier in cases where a federation refuses to register a women's team. Although the squad cannot enter qualification for the 2027 Women's World Cup, it is eligible for future competitions, including qualification for the 2028 Olympic Games, and is expected to return to action during the June international window.

The decision sets a precedent for displaced athletes worldwide, recognising that political circumstances should not permanently end international careers. For the Afghan players, it restores the chance to represent their country on the global stage, even while living in exile.