The world football governing body, FIFA, has lifted the “controlled funding” restriction it had placed on Nepal. FIFA had imposed this ban on the All Nepal Football Association (ANFA) on March 15, 2021, citing concerns about financial mismanagement and possible corruption.
Under the ban, FIFA monitored and controlled how ANFA could spend the financial support it provided.
After nearly four years, on Thursday, FIFA’s Governance, Audit and Compliance Committee (GACC) decided to lift the restriction. ANFA announced that FIFA made this decision recognizing the transparency and good governance efforts of the current leadership under President Pankaj Bikram Nembang.
With the ban removed, ANFA can now independently use FIFA’s financial assistance. ANFA has described FIFA’s decision as a result of the leadership’s commitment to reforms and accountability.
In October 2024, ANFA had also received the AFC Member Association of the Year (Gold) Award 2024.
In a press release on Saturday, ANFA stated, “After the election, our journey to reform the institution, end disorder, and ensure transparency has now reached a positive milestone.”
ANFA highlighted that cooperation with FIFA has helped transform its financial system to meet international accounting standards.
While acknowledging past criticisms during President Pankaj Bikram Nembang’s term, ANFA defended its actions, stating that their work speaks for itself. “Despite attempts by biased and self-interested groups to hinder football development, the truth has prevailed,” the press release added.
ANFA also claimed that recent performances by the women’s national team in Uzbekistan and the U-20 women’s team in Bangladesh have strengthened Nepal’s chances of qualifying for the Women’s World Cup 2031.
Similarly, the men’s national team’s historic wins over Singapore and Afghanistan have sparked hope for future success.
With the ban lifted, ANFA now plans to organize various football programs on time, including grassroots football, school-level tournaments, youth competitions, men’s and women’s leagues, the President’s League, and the A Division League.
ANFA also expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister for supporting the proposed stadium in Kathmandu and reiterated its commitment to building its own stadium soon. The association promised to maintain financial transparency and good governance to retain the trust of FIFA and the AFC.
