Concerns for the safety of Iranian soccer players have intensified following the asylum granted to five of their teammates in Australia. The remaining members of the Iranian women’s national team, known as the Lionesses, departed Australia on the evening of March 5, 2024, after traveling from the Gold Coast to Sydney. Reports indicated that one or two players were unable to board the flight, sparking fears about their well-being upon returning to Iran.
The team left their accommodation under police protection, with videos showing one player appearing to be forcibly assisted onto the bus by a teammate. As the players attempted to leave, demonstrators opposed to the Iranian government gathered to protest, attempting to block the bus from reaching the airport.
Upon their arrival at Sydney Airport, the players faced further demonstrations. Some were labeled “traitors” on Iranian state television for their actions during the Asian Cup, particularly for not singing the national anthem just days after a military strike that resulted in the death of former supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Among those who will remain in Australia are captain Zahra Ghanbari and players Fatemeh Pasandideh, Zahra Sarbali, Atefeh Ramezanizadeh, and Mona Hamoudi. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced that the asylum offer remains available to other players seeking safety.
Advocate Ara Rasuli, involved in the asylum process, emphasized the risks faced by those returning to Iran, stating that they could encounter severe repercussions, including execution, while their families might suffer retaliation from the regime. “They are in a lot of danger,” Rasuli remarked, adding that threats could include detaining family members and confiscating assets.
Three players—Zahra Ghanbari, Mona Hamoudi, and Atefeh Ramezanizadeh—have been granted humanitarian visas, which will allow them to remain in Australia. The situation has drawn attention to the broader implications for athletes in repressive regimes.
Craig Foster, former captain of the Australian men’s national team and a human rights advocate, has called for reforms in global sports governance. He criticized organizations such as the Asian Football Confederation and FIFA for their failure to protect athletes, stating, “This should have been avoidable. What has happened is neither uncommon nor unpreventable.”
Instances of athletes claiming asylum during international events are not new. In 2021, members of the Afghan women’s cricket team, along with staff and family, fled to Australia following the Taliban’s takeover.
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) confirmed their involvement in assisting the team, stating they have established long-standing relationships with the Iranian diaspora through their Community Liaison Teams. An AFP statement acknowledged the support from community leaders and advocacy groups in facilitating the asylum process.
As the situation develops, the plight of these athletes highlights the ongoing challenges faced by individuals from oppressive regimes, and raises questions about the responsibilities of international sports organizations in safeguarding their well-being.
