Three of six Iranian women’s soccer players granted asylum in Australia have elected to return to Iran, according to Ryde City Councilor Tina Kordrostami.
Kordrostami confirmed the decision was driven by direct regime coercion - including detention and disappearance of family members - and described it as an act of survival, not choice.
She warned the returning players face grave danger: under Iranian law, breaking athletic contracts can carry the death penalty.
Australia offered asylum individually at customs, away from Iranian officials. Five players accepted; three declined, citing family safety.
Iran head coach Marziyeh Jafari stated the team wants to return to Iran “as soon as we can.”