FIFA suspends Nepal over third-party interference

KATHMANDU: The Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) has suspended Nepal with immediate effect, citing third-party interference in the affairs of the country’s football governing body.

In a decision taken by the FIFA Council Bureau under Article 14 of the FIFA Statutes, Nepal has been suspended from FIFA membership until further notice.

FIFA said the suspension was imposed due to third-party interference, a violation of its regulations that require member associations to operate independently and free from external influence.

The decision marks the first time in Nepal’s football history that the country has been suspended by FIFA.

As a result of the suspension, the All Nepal Football Association (ANFA) loses all membership rights granted under Article 13 of the FIFA Statutes.

During the suspension period, Nepal’s national teams and club teams will be barred from participating in international competitions organized by FIFA and its affiliated bodies.

The suspension deals a major blow to Nepali football, potentially affecting players, clubs, officials, and ongoing international engagements.

Earlier, Nepal’s football governing body had also faced a three-month suspension from the National Sports Council (NSC), although that suspension was later lifted.

FIFA has not specified a timeline for the lifting of the ban, stating that the suspension will remain in force until further notice.