At least seven members of Iran’s women’s national football team have sought asylum in Australia, raising international attention over the safety of athletes returning to the Islamic Republic.
According to Australia’s national broadcaster, ABC, five of the 13-player squad were granted asylum on Monday after expressing fears they could face persecution if they returned to Iran. Sources later confirmed that at least two more players have since applied for asylum, including one who reportedly refused to board a departing flight at Sydney Airport at the last minute.
Australia’s Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke confirmed that immigration and border officials held several private meetings with each member of the team before their scheduled departure from Sydney.
“Every single member of that team was put in a situation where they were just with Home Affairs officials, where the people who might put pressure on them were nowhere near them at all, and they were given a choice,” Burke said.
He emphasized that the athletes were allowed to make their own decisions freely without pressure from the Australian government.
“I respect their independence and agency with whatever decision they chose,” he added.
Burke also acknowledged concerns that some players may fear retaliation against family members back home. He noted that the players were given time to communicate with loved ones before deciding whether to remain in Australia.
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“People could contact family members, they had all the time that they needed and we also made sure that there wasn’t pressure from us,” he said.
Scenes of celebration were reported at Sydney Airport, where supporters gathered to show solidarity with the team. Crowds reportedly cheered when news spread that two additional players had chosen to stay in Australia.
Meanwhile, the remaining members of the Iranian squad departed Australia on Tuesday evening from Sydney International Airport, travelling onward to Kuala Lumpur.
The controversy surrounding the team began earlier this month during the AFC Women’s Asian Cup, when several players refused to sing Iran’s national anthem before their opening match against South Korea. The act was widely interpreted as a silent protest.
Following the incident, Iranian state television labelled the players “traitors,” intensifying concerns over their safety should they return home.
Under the laws of the Islamic Republic of Iran, charges such as treason or corruption can carry severe penalties, including long prison sentences or even the death penalty.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese earlier indicated that Australia was prepared to assist members of the team seeking protection.
Burke confirmed that Australia’s domestic intelligence agency, Australian Security Intelligence Organisation, had conducted the necessary security checks before the asylum applications were processed.
The players have been granted temporary humanitarian visas valid for 12 months, which also provide a pathway to permanent residency in Australia. Similar visas have previously been offered to people fleeing conflict and persecution from countries including Ukraine, Afghanistan and Palestinian territories.
Authorities say further updates on the asylum applications are expected in the coming days.
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