Two More Iranian Footballers Withdraw Australia Asylum Bids
Last update: March 14, 2026
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Three members of the national team delegation are now travelling to Malaysia as others remain abroad after refusing to sing the national anthem.
Two more players from Iran women's national football team and a member of the backroom staff have withdrawn their asylum requests in Australia, Iranian state media reported on Saturday.
Earlier in the week, one player had already rejoined teammates preparing to return home via Malaysia. State broadcaster Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting said the three women were photographed wearing hijabs as they appeared ready to board a flight.
Seven members of the team had initially sought asylum after being labelled traitors for refusing to sing the national anthem amid tensions involving Iran, United States and Israel.
Australian authorities said the first player to withdraw her request inadvertently revealed the location of others, forcing them to move from their safe house.
Rights groups have accused Iranian authorities of pressuring athletes abroad by threatening relatives or seizing property, while Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese praised the women’s bravery.
Iran’s football body accused Australia of kidnapping players, saying the team was coerced into abandoning their homeland.
Five players, including captain Zahra Ghanbari, initially sought asylum in Sydney, followed by two more members before the team left Australia.
