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Fifth member of iranian women's soccer team withdraws Australia asylum offer

Published by Global Banking & Finance Review®

Posted on March 15, 2026

2 min read

Last updated: March 15, 2026

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Tags:headlines International Sports Politics

Fifth Iranian Women's Soccer Team Member Withdraws Asylum Offer in Australia

Developments in the Iranian Women's Soccer Team Asylum Case

Background of the Asylum Request

SYDNEY, March 16 (Reuters) - A fifth member of the Iranian women's soccer team who had sought asylum in Australia has changed her mind and decided to return home to Iran, Australian media reported on Monday.

Australia had granted humanitarian visas to six players and one support staff member last week from the Iranian squad after they sought asylum over fears of possible persecution upon returning home. The concerns came after they failed to sing the national anthem at a Women's Asian Cup match.

Changes in Asylum Decisions

Multiple Withdrawals from Asylum

Three members of the delegation on Sunday decided to abandon the asylum offer. Another member changed her mind last week, leaving only two members in Australia.

Government Response and Ongoing Support

"This is a very complex situation," Australian Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs Matt Thistlethwaite told Sky News on Monday.

Thistlethwaite said the government respects the decision of those who chose to return to Iran while continuing to provide support to the two members still in Australia.

Repatriation and Team Statements

Return to Iran

The members who have decided to decline Australia's asylum offer are expected to join the rest of the team in Malaysia before leaving for Tehran soon "to once again be embraced by their families and homeland," the Iranian Football Association said.

Context: Asian Cup and International Reactions

Asian Cup Campaign and Regional Tensions

The Iranian team's campaign in the Asian Cup started just as the United States and Israel launched air strikes on Iran, killing the Islamic Republic's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. They were eliminated from the tournament a week ago.

International Political Support

U.S. President Donald Trump had praised Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese for allowing the women to stay, saying on social media the United States was ready to take the players if Australia did not.

Reporting Credits

(Reporting by Renju Jose in Sydney; Editing by Will Dunham)

References

Frequently Asked Questions about Fifth member of Iranian women's soccer team withdraws Australia asylum offer

1Why did the Iranian women's soccer team members seek asylum in Australia?

They feared possible persecution in Iran after failing to sing the national anthem at a Women's Asian Cup match.

2How many Iranian women's soccer team members were granted asylum in Australia?

Australia granted humanitarian visas to six players and one support staff member from the Iranian team.

3How many team members have withdrawn their asylum requests?

Five members have decided to withdraw their asylum requests and return to Iran.

4What support is Australia providing to the remaining team members?

Australia continues to provide support to the two members who have chosen to remain in the country.

5What was the Iranian Football Association's response?

They stated that the returning members are expected to be reunited with their families and homeland soon.