The Digester

Two more Iranian women footballers withdraw Australian asylum bids, state media says

Mar 14th 2026

IRIB says two more Iran women’s team members and a staffer withdrew asylum claims and flew to Malaysia, after earlier reports that several players sought refuge in Australia following an anthem dispute at the Asian Cup.

  • Iranian state broadcaster IRIB reported on March 14 that two players and a member of the support staff withdrew asylum applications in Australia and were heading to Malaysia.
  • Earlier reports said several members of the Iran women’s football delegation sought asylum in Australia after the team refused to sing the national anthem at the Asian Cup in Queensland.
  • FIFPRO urged FIFA and the Asian Football Confederation to take steps to protect the players after threats and safety concerns were reported.
  • Australian Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke said one player reversed an asylum claim after advice from teammates and was encouraged to contact the Iranian embassy.
  • Iran’s football federation has accused Australia of kidnapping the players, while Australian and international reports say some players left their hotel to claim asylum in Australia.

Articles