Under what condition can FIFA authorize a confederation to grant membership to an association from another continent?

FIFA can authorize a confederation to grant membership to an association from another continent if it grants exceptional approval. This unique provision allows FIFA to consider special cases that may not adhere strictly to the geographic boundaries usually respected in confederation memberships. Exceptional approval might be required for reasons such as historical ties, ongoing collaborations, or other significant factors that justify a departure from the norm.

The other conditions do not meet the criteria for such authorization. For example, merely having agreement from the confederation or receiving notification is insufficient if there is no exceptional justification recognized by FIFA. Likewise, while historical ties could support a case, they alone do not provide the authority necessary for cross-continental association membership without FIFA's explicit and exceptional sanction. Thus, the need for FIFA's exceptional approval underscores the importance of maintaining the integrity and regulations of the football community across different regions.