Timeline of Nepali Football: From Founding of ANFA to the June 24 FIFA Suspension
Summary
Nepali football has a rich history of growth and tournaments but has been marred by governance issues and corruption, culminating in FIFA suspending ANFA in June 2026 due to third-party interference.
Key Points
- Nepal’s football began during the Rana regime and grew with the founding of ANFA in 1951.
- ANFA faced long-term governance issues and corruption scandals, especially involving former president Ganesh Thapa.
- FIFA imposed sanctions including a 10-year ban on Ganesh Thapa and financial controls on ANFA between 2012 and 2026.
- Due to political interference by Nepal’s National Sports Council, FIFA suspended ANFA in June 2026, halting Nepal’s international football participation.
