By Micah Jonah
March 15, 2026
Three members of Iran’s women’s national football team who previously sought asylum in Australia have decided to return home, according to Australian authorities.
The players were among seven Iranian footballers granted humanitarian visas by the Australian government after expressing fears of persecution if they had returned to Iran. The concerns arose after the athletes reportedly refused to sing the national anthem during a Women’s Asian Cup match.
Australia’s Home Affairs Minister, Tony Burke said the players were repeatedly given opportunities to discuss their options before deciding to return. He noted that while Australia could offer protection and information, the final decision rested with the athletes.
Iran’s football governing body, the Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran, identified the players returning as Mona Hamoudi, Zahra Sarbali and Zahra Meshkehkar. The federation said the trio would first reunite with their teammates in Malaysia before travelling back to Tehran to join their families.
Four of the seven players who initially sought asylum have now chosen to leave Australia. Another member had earlier withdrawn her request for asylum.
The development comes as Iran’s women’s national team recently exited the Women’s Asian Cup tournament. The competition took place during a period of heightened political tension in the region, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the players’ future.
