Former Afghanistan women’s football captain Khalida Popal has been recognized among TIME magazine’s 100 most influential figures in the world of sports for 2026.
Kabul | Somayeh Hashemi
Khalida Popal, former captain and one of the founders of Afghanistan’s women’s national football team, has been included in TIME magazine’s list of the 100 most influential people in sports for 2026.
The recognition highlights Popal’s continued impact on the global sports community and her long-standing advocacy for women’s participation and leadership in football.
The achievement comes alongside another international recognition received this month, as the United Nations named Popal among 16 prominent football figures selected for its “Football for the Goals” initiative.
Popal has become an internationally recognized voice for women’s rights in sport and has played a significant role in supporting Afghan female athletes both inside and outside the country.
Khalida Popal was one of the founders of Afghanistan’s women’s national football team and served as its captain. Over the years, she has gained international recognition for her efforts to promote gender equality, athlete protection, and greater opportunities for women in football.