Iranian Women Footballers Moved To Safe Location By Australian Police

Iranian women footballers moved to safe location by Australian police Five members of Iran’s women’s national football team have been moved to a safe location by Australian police after concerns were raised about their safety if they returned to Iran. The players were in Australia for the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup when they decided to seek protection, fearing possible punishment from authorities in Tehran. The controversy began when members of the Iranian team did not sing the national anthem before one of their matches, a gesture widely seen as a protest. The act drew criticism from some commentators in Iran, who labelled the players “wartime traitors”, raising fears that they could face harsh consequences if they returned home. Supporters and activists in Australia then raised alarms about the women’s safety and urged the government to intervene. Australia’s Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke confirmed that the players left their hotel and were taken by police to a secure location. He said the women “were moved to a safe location” after it became clear they wanted to remain in Australia. Authorities had already placed police around the team during the tournament because of the tense situation and fears that the players could be monitored or pressured by officials travelling with the squad.

After discussions with Australian officials, the five players were granted humanitarian visas, allowing them to stay in the country permanently.

The players are:

• Fatemeh Pasandideh
• Zahra Ghanbari
• Zahra Sarbali
• Atefeh Ramazanzadeh
• Mona Hamoudi

Under the visa programme, they will be able to live, work and study in Australia.Burke said the athletes had faced an extremely difficult choice, stressing that they were not political activists but simply wanted to be safe. Australia has also said that the same opportunity to stay in the country remains open to other members of the squad if they wish to apply.

However, several teammates have already left Australia and returned home, despite concerns from human rights groups about potential reprisals. The situation has drawn global attention as tensions rise in Iran and across the region. Analysts say the case highlights the pressures faced by female athletes in the country and the risks they may face if they are perceived as opposing government policies.

For now, the five footballers remain under protection in Australia while beginning a new chapter of their lives.