Iranian women football team

By Vikram Nair / 13.03.2026

Iranian Women’s Football Team Faces Uncertainty After Asian Cup Exit

The Iranian women’s football team has split between Malaysia and Australia after their exit from the Asian Cup, with seven players granted humanitarian visas in Australia.

Six players and one staff member remain in Australia, having accepted the visas, while 21 players are set to return to Iran. The team was offered asylum following a notable incident where some players remained silent during the Iranian national anthem before their opening match.

Iran’s foreign ministry spokesman, Esmaeil Baqaei, urged the players to return home, stating, “Don’t worry — Iran awaits you with open arms.” This statement reflects the ongoing tensions surrounding the team’s situation amid geopolitical issues affecting Iran.

Before their teammates departed, two more members of the Iranian women’s football team were granted asylum in Australia, bringing the total number of players who sought asylum to five. The players faced significant pressure due to the events unfolding in Iran, which has heightened concerns over their safety.

Tony Burke, an Australian government official, expressed support for the players, saying, “They are welcome to stay in Australia, they are safe here, and they should feel at home here.” This sentiment underscores the welcoming stance of the Australian government towards the athletes.

As the team participated in the Asian Cup 2026 in Australia, they lost three games, culminating in their early exit from the tournament. The circumstances surrounding their departure have drawn attention from various organizations, including FIFPRO, which advocates for players’ rights.

Concerns remain about the safety of the returning players in Iran, with Iran’s Prosecutor General’s Office inviting them to return with assurances of peace and confidence. However, the reality of their situation remains precarious.

Beau Bush, a representative from FIFPRO, emphasized the organization’s commitment to ensuring the players’ safety, stating, “We are making sure that FIFA and the AFC are putting as much pressure as possible on the Iranian authorities, outlining their expectations around safety to make sure they’re not met with any retribution or retaliation.”

Details remain unconfirmed regarding when the players will leave Malaysia and where they will travel to next. The unfolding situation continues to attract international attention as the players navigate their uncertain futures.