By Sachit Subba • Off-Field • Mar 25, 2026 15:28 PM • 28 views
KATHMANDU – The National Sports Council (NSC) has suspended the All Nepal Football Association (ANFA) for three months, following a March 25, 2026, executive committee meeting. The council cited Section 29(2) of the National Sports Development Act, 2077 BS (2020 AD), which authorises disciplinary action against sports associations that violate regulations, to remove ANFA's powers during the suspension period.
The dispute concerns that ANFA may have bypassed national protocols to expedite an election cycle without the required government oversight. ANFA maintained that its autonomy is protected by international mandates, while the NSC expressed concern about the association's compliance with written directives and domestic law. After a 24-hour request for clarification resulted in what the council considered an incomplete response, the NSC assumed a supervisory role.
The suspension has introduced some uncertainty regarding the administration of football in Nepal. The NSC will manage affairs during this period.
The suspension follows the NSC's demand for a structural overhaul, requiring ANFA to amend its bylaws to comply with both the National Sports Development Act, 2016 (Nepali year 2073 BS), and the 2079 BS Regulations under that Act. The council has stated that any future election or congress will take place only under NSC supervision and approval. Until these legal requirements are met, all of the association's activities are suspended.
ANFA's previous level of autonomy has been modified.
