Five Iranian football players granted visas to stay in Australia after anthem protest

Five Iranian football players have been granted visas to stay in Australia after refusing to sing their national anthem. This is a significant decision following their asylum request.
By Newsroom | Sports, Immigration |

Five members of Iran's national women's football squad, having sought asylum in Australia after refusing to sing their country's national anthem during the Women's Asian Cup, have been granted humanitarian visas and will be permitted to stay. This development comes as human rights advocates and a significant portion of the public express grave concerns for the safety of the players should they be forced to return to Iran.

The athletes reportedly absconded from their handlers on the Gold Coast, seeking refuge under police protection. Their decision to refuse to sing the anthem prior to their opening match against South Korea on March 2nd has reportedly sparked calls for severe repercussions from conservative factions within Iran.

"We all have very reasonable and serious concerns for their safety."

The youngest player on the team is reported to be 18 years old. One player, in particular, has faced disciplinary action in the past when her headscarf inadvertently shifted during a goal celebration. A petition urging the Australian government to offer protection to the players garnered over 60,000 signatures.

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Iran players facing risk if they leave Australia - 1

Australian Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke confirmed the granting of the visas on Tuesday morning. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese indicated that discussions regarding the players' situation had been ongoing, and that safe locations had been provided, with offers extended to the remaining team members. Former US President Donald Trump also reportedly contacted Australian leadership about the matter.

The players had been housed in a secure location after leaving their hotel. The departure from their team and chaperones was described by sources within the Iranian-Australian community as an act of seeking support.

The broader implications of the players' actions and Australia's response raise questions regarding FIFA's own human rights framework, which host nations are expected to adhere to, focusing on safeguarding participants from discrimination and abuse. However, it is understood that not all members of the team may opt to remain in Australia. Reports suggest some players feel pressured to return home due to threats against their families.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why did five Iranian football players seek asylum in Australia?
Five members of Iran's national women's football team refused to sing their country's national anthem during the Women's Asian Cup. They feared repercussions if they returned to Iran and sought asylum.
Q: Have the Iranian football players been granted visas to stay in Australia?
Yes, the Australian government has granted humanitarian visas to five Iranian women's football players. They will be allowed to remain in the country.
Q: What was the reason the players refused to sing the national anthem?
The players reportedly refused to sing their national anthem before their match on March 2nd. Human rights advocates and the public have concerns for their safety in Iran.
Q: How many people signed the petition asking Australia to protect the players?
A petition urging the Australian government to offer protection to the players received over 60,000 signatures. This shows strong public support for them.
Q: Are all the Iranian football players staying in Australia?
It is understood that not all team members may choose to stay in Australia. Some players reportedly feel pressured to return home due to threats against their families.