FIFA and AFC Express Concern Over NSC Intervention in ANFA Affairs

Kathmandu. The Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) have expressed serious concern regarding the decision made by the National Sports Council (NSC) concerning the election process and statutes of the All Nepal Football Association (ANFA). 

Furthermore, they have urged for the withdrawal of the said decision.

In a joint letter sent to ANFA General Secretary Kiran Rai, FIFA and AFC referenced the online meeting held between the NSC, ANFA, AFC, and FIFA on 13 April 2026, as well as the NSC's correspondence dated 13 April, praising the open and constructive discussion regarding the current state of ANFA. They also described the dialogue between all parties as a positive step. 

However, they noted that the decision made by the NSC on 25 March 2026 has significantly impacted the autonomy and activities of ANFA. 

The decision had directed the suspension of ANFA's ongoing election process, the amendment of certain provisions in its statutes, and instructed district football associations to amend their own statutes before holding elective general assemblies. FIFA and AFC have deemed this as 'third-party interference' in the autonomy of ANFA. 

The letter cites the provision that member associations of international football federations must operate independently, concluding that the NSC's decision contradicts FIFA and AFC regulations and the obligations ANFA must uphold as a member association. Therefore, they have requested a reconsideration and withdrawal of the decision by 4 May 2026. 

FIFA and AFC have also clarified that they are prepared for constructive dialogue to find a solution through mutual consensus among all stakeholders once the decision is withdrawn. Additionally, they have requested ANFA to keep them updated on the matter.