By Micah Jonah
March 11, 2026
Five members of the Iran women’s national football team have been granted asylum in Australia after leaving their team hotel with the assistance of security authorities, officials confirmed.
The players, including team captain Zahra Ghanbari, sought protection after they were reportedly labelled “wartime traitors” for refusing to sing the national anthem before an Asian Cup match.
According to officials, the players were moved from their accommodation to a secure location by the Australian Federal Police before their humanitarian visas were approved.
Australia’s Home Affairs Minister, Tony Burke confirmed that the five athletes were granted asylum following several days of discussions with immigration authorities.
The players granted protection are Ghanbari, Zahra Sarbali Alishah, Mona Hamoudi, Atefeh Ramezanizadeh and Fatemeh Pasandideh.
Authorities said the women remain under police protection after being relocated to a safe location while their status in the country is finalized.
Officials also indicated that the offer of asylum remains open to other members of the team who are still staying at a hotel on the Gold Coast.
Four of the athletes are teammates at Bam Khatoon FC, a club that has won the Iranian women’s league title multiple times.
Government representatives said the players faced a difficult decision before choosing to remain in Australia, adding that further protection would be available to other squad members who decide to seek asylum.
