3 Iranian female footballers opt to return home after humanitarian visa offer

International, Middle East, Sports

SPORTS— (NPA) March 15, 2026—Three members of Iran’s women’s national football team have chosen to return to their country despite being granted humanitarian visas in Australia.

According to ABC News, Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke confirmed the decision, noting that the players were given multiple opportunities to explore their options but ultimately decided to rejoin their team in Iran.

The move comes after seven players and staff sought asylum following the Women’s Asian Cup tournament in Australia. Four of those individuals have now reversed course and left the country.

Burke emphasised that while the government ensured the women had access to safe alternatives, the broader circumstances influencing their choices could not be removed.

“The Australian government has done everything it could to make sure these women were provided with the chance for a safe future in Australia,” he said. “Australians should be proud that it was here they experienced genuine choices and support.”

The Iranian squad arrived in Australia on March 1, just one day after U.S. and Israeli air strikes killed Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Tensions were evident during the tournament, with some players refusing to sing the national anthem before their opening match against South Korea. Iranian state television later branded the team “traitors.”

Under Iran’s penal code, charges of treason or corruption can carry severe penalties, including lengthy imprisonment or even execution.

Initially, five players fled their team hotel on the Gold Coast, fearing persecution if they returned home. They were granted humanitarian visas, followed shortly by another player and a staff member. However, within days, one of the seven asylum seekers had already decided to return to Iran—a choice now echoed by three more teammates.