Iran Women's Soccer Team Members Return to Iran

Three members of Iran's women's soccer team have decided to return to Iran after previously accepting refugee visas in Australia, according to Australian Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke.

The departure follows the team's participation in the Women's Asian Cup in Australia, where six players and one support staff member initially accepted humanitarian visas. One later changed her mind; the other three left Sydney for Kuala Lumpur on Saturday night.

Members of Iran's women's soccer team as they arrive at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport in Sepang, Malaysia, after taking part in the Asian Cup tournament in Australia, on March 11, 2026. Mohd RASFAN /AFP via Getty Images

Tasnim News Agency reported the returning trio included two players and a support staff member, describing their return as a 'warm embrace' from family and country.

Concerns over safety arose after the team did not sing Iran’s national anthem prior to their first match. The Australian government faced pressure from Iranian groups and former U.S. President Trump to assist the players.