Two Iranian footballers, Fatemeh Pasandideh and Atefeh Ramezanisadeh, are training with Australia’s Brisbane Roar after seeking asylum during the Women’s Asian Cup.
The pair were among seven players who initially sought refuge in Australia after refusing to sing Iran’s national anthem during their opening match on March 2. The other five later reversed their decision and have since left the country.
Brisbane Roar confirmed it is providing training facilities and a “supportive environment” while the women navigate their next steps. The club emphasized its commitment to football and community-“no politics, no conditions.”
The athletes were granted humanitarian visas amid fears of reprisals from Iranian authorities. Human rights advocates suggest the five who returned may have faced pressure or threats against their families.
Their protest occurred amid escalating regional tensions, following U.S. and Israeli airstrikes in Iran on February 28.