Two Iranian footballers, Atefeh Ramezanisadeh and Fatemeh Pasandideh, have found a "hope for a future where we can live and compete in safety" after being granted asylum in Australia. The pair were among seven members of the Iranian team who received humanitarian visas while in Australia for the Women's Asian Cup.
While the other five players returned to Iran, Ramezanisadeh and Pasandideh cited fears of repercussions for declining to sing the Iranian national anthem. They thanked the Australian government and the Iranian diaspora community for their support.
The footballers, who have been pictured training with the A-League Women's team Brisbane Roar, aim to continue their elite sporting careers in Australia. Their situation unfolded amid heightened tensions and concerns for their safety following events in their home country.