Fear, uncertainty surround Iran women's football team's return home

"The reality at the moment is that we're unable to get in touch with the players. That's incredibly concerning. That's not a new thing. That's really been since the repression really dialled up in February, January. So we're really concerned about the players, but our responsibility right now is to do everything within our power to try and make sure that they're safe."

"FIFPRO, which represents professional footballers globally, said on Monday that there were serious concerns for the welfare of the Iranians as they prepared to return home after being labelled wartime traitors for refusing to sing their national anthem before an Asian Cup match."

"Busch said the organisation was working with FIFA, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) and the Australian government to ensure that every bit of pressure is applied to protect the players and give them agency around what happens next. It's a really challenging situation."

The Iranian women's football team was eliminated from the AFC Women's Asian Cup 2026 after losing to the Philippines in Australia. Beyond their on-field performance, significant safety concerns have emerged regarding their return home during the Israeli-United States conflict. FIFPRO, the global footballers union, and human rights activists are urging the Australian government and tournament organizers to extend the players' stay. The players faced repression after refusing to sing their national anthem in protest, leading to accusations of being wartime traitors. FIFPRO's Asia-Oceania president reports difficulty contacting the players and emphasizes the need to provide them agency in deciding whether to seek asylum or return home, while working with FIFA, the AFC, and Australian authorities to ensure their protection.

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