Australia has granted humanitarian visas to five Iranian women football players who sought asylum, fearing persecution for refusing to sing Iran’s national anthem during the AFC Women’s Asian Cup.
The five players—Zahra Sarbali Alishah, Mona Hamoudi, Zahra Ghanbari, Fatemeh Pasandideh, and Atefeh Ramezanizadeh—were secretly escorted by Australian police from their team hotel on the Gold Coast to safety. They are now staying at an undisclosed location under protection.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said, “Australians have been moved by the plight of these brave women. They are safe here and should feel at home.” Albanese confirmed that the remaining team members have access to assistance if they wish to seek protection, but the choice is theirs.
The players faced threats after standing silently during Iran’s anthem before their first match against South Korea. State media in Iran labeled them “wartime traitors.” The team lost 2-0 to the Philippines and was eliminated from the tournament.
U.S. President Donald Trump praised Australia’s action, saying the U.S. was ready to take the players if Australia did not, emphasizing that the women could face serious danger if forced to return to Iran.
FIFPRO, the global players’ union, voiced concern for the safety of the remaining team members and their families in Iran, urging that all players be aware of their rights and receive protection.
The Australian government previously granted emergency humanitarian visas to Afghan women athletes after the Taliban banned women’s sports in 2021, showing its ongoing support for women’s rights in sport.
