Australia has granted humanitarian visas to five members of Iran’s women’s national football team after they sought asylum, fearing persecution if they returned home amid rising political tensions.
The players were in Australia for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup when they reportedly approached authorities for protection. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed on Tuesday that the government had provided assistance to the players and that they were now safe.
Read More: Iran women’s team faces family concerns amid war during Asian cup
“Australians have been moved by the plight of these brave women,” Albanese told reporters in Canberra. “They’re safe here, and they should feel at home here.”
According to officials, the five footballers were moved from the team’s hotel on the Gold Coast with the help of police and placed in a secure location while their cases were processed.
Australia has agreed to give visas to five members of the Iranian women’s football team who sought refuge there after fears of “dire consequences” if they returned homehttps://t.co/95KUgKTQbg
— Sky News (@SkyNews) March 9, 2026
The development came after US President Donald Trump said he had spoken with Albanese about the situation following reports that several players had requested asylum. Trump initially criticised Australia on social media over concerns the players could be forced to return to Iran, warning that they could face serious consequences.
In a later statement, Trump said the issue had been discussed with the Australian leader and described the handling of the situation as “a very good job” given its sensitive nature.
The players reportedly sought assistance after being labelled “wartime traitors” in Iranian media for refusing to sing the national anthem before their opening match of the tournament. The incident raised alarm among human rights groups and football organisations about the team’s safety.
Football’s global players’ union FIFPRO also expressed concern over the welfare of the Iranian squad during the competition.
Read More: Iran players salute and sing national anthem at Women’s Asian Cup
Australian Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke confirmed the government had been in confidential discussions with the players for several days before granting them protection.
Other members of the Iranian team remain in Australia, with authorities saying support is available if they choose to seek asylum as well.