Iranian Soccer Players Granted Asylum in Australia, One Changes Mind

A complex situation involving members of the Iranian women’s national soccer team seeking asylum in Australia has unfolded, with initial humanitarian visas granted to seven players and a team staff member, followed by one player reversing her decision and returning to Iran.

Asylum Requests and Initial Response

Five Iranian soccer players were initially granted humanitarian visas after expressing fears for their safety upon returning to Iran. These fears stemmed from being labeled “traitors” on Iranian state television for not singing the national anthem during a match as reported by the ABC. Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke approved their asylum claims, and the Australian Federal Police assisted in ensuring their safety after they separated from their Iranian security detail .

Subsequently, two additional members of the team were granted protection, bringing the total number of individuals offered humanitarian visas to seven according to The Guardian.

Change of Heart and Security Concerns

Although, on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, one of the players who had been granted a visa changed her mind and contacted the Iranian embassy, requesting to be collected . This decision led to a security concern, as the player inadvertently revealed the location of the remaining women who had chosen to stay in Australia. Those players were moved to a safer, undisclosed location .

Minister Burke emphasized that individuals in Australia are free to change their minds and travel, and that the government respects the player’s decision .

Iran’s Response and Concerns for Remaining Players

The Iranian foreign affairs ministry has accused the Australian government of holding the players “hostage” and urged them to return home, stating they would be welcomed “with open arms” . There are growing fears for the safety of the players returning to Iran, given the previous accusations of being “wartime traitors” .

Further Developments

The team had arrived in Australia for the Women’s Asian Cup and was under heavy guard by Iranian security during their stay on the Gold Coast as reported by SBS. Demonstrations in support of the team were held at Sydney airport upon their arrival from the Gold Coast . The returning Iranian players landed in Malaysia on Wednesday morning.

Minister Burke also noted that members of the Iranian delegation connected to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps were not granted visas to enter Australia for the Asian Cup .