Kuwait will be allowed to compete in FIFA competitions again after world football’s governing body lifted the suspension that has been hanging over the country for more than two years.

FIFA banned Kuwait from playing internationals in 2015 after deeming the Gulf state’s government had too much involvement with football.

But on a surprise visit to Kuwait City, FIFA president Gianni Infantino confirmed that after being satisfied by assurances about the independence of the football association, the suspension had ended.

Infantino revealed the news alongside the Minister of Trade and Industry Khaled Al Rowdan.

The ban had prevented Kuwait from competing in qualifiers for the 2018 World Cup and 2019 Asian Cup, as well as stopping domestic sides playing in Asia’s AFC Cup.