Two additional members of the Iranian women’s football team have reportedly sought asylum in Australia after refusing to board a flight back to Iran following the conclusion of the Women’s Asian Cup tournament.
Earlier in the week, five players had been granted humanitarian visas in Australia after deciding not to return home. On Tuesday night, reports confirmed that the number of players seeking asylum rose to seven when two more members of the squad chose to remain in the country.
The team had arrived at Sydney Airport just after 8 p.m. local time, having traveled from the Gold Coast, where they played their final match on Sunday, a 2-0 loss to the Philippines.
Malaysian Airlines flight MH140 departed Sydney at 10:43 p.m. local time, bound for Kuala Lumpur. It remained unclear what route the players would take to return to Iran due to airspace restrictions amid ongoing Middle East tensions.
Supporters had gathered at Sydney Airport to offer assistance and hope that more team members might request asylum. Some supporters reported emotional exchanges through the plane and bus windows as the players were escorted under Australian Federal Police supervision.
Five players, led by captain Zahra Ghanbari, were formally granted temporary humanitarian visas by the Australian government earlier on Tuesday, offering a pathway to permanent residency. These players have also received offers to train with A-League Women’s club Brisbane Roar.
Advocates and human rights groups emphasized that all team members should have the opportunity to speak to officials and receive independent legal advice before leaving Australia.
Concerns have been raised regarding potential violations under exit trafficking legislation, which governs the coerced movement of individuals in and out of the country.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the situation as “delicate” and stressed that the decision to seek protection remains with the players.
Australian authorities have coordinated with the Department of Home Affairs and provided assistance while avoiding public commentary on ongoing investigations.
Amnesty International Australia and refugee advocates urged that the offer of protection be extended to families of the players still in Iran.
Legal experts highlighted the importance of proper human rights protocols during major sporting events, citing the Iranian women’s team case as a foreseeable scenario.
As supporters celebrated the first group’s granting of asylum, they chanted in joy, welcoming the players into Australia and acknowledging their safety in the country.
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