Iran’s national women’s soccer team returned home to a large welcome in Tehran after playing in the Women’s Asian Cup in Australia. The team members, including six players and a staff member, initially sought asylum but later decided to return. The return drew attention amid allegations of familial pressure by Iranian authorities.
State media reported thousands gathered in Valiasr Square for the event, where images showed expressions of loyalty to Iran. Players, who faced backlash for not singing the national anthem during an early match, later joined in singing it. Team members who returned cited national pride over offers of asylum-related incentives.
In Australia, some players, criticized at home as “wartime traitors,” submitted asylum claims, which they later withdrew. Activists allege their families faced pressure in Iran, while Iranian officials mentioned athletes were courted by lucrative offers abroad.
Iranian soccer official Farideh Shojaei acknowledged these offers but praised the athletes for prioritizing their national identity. Two players remained in Australia, while the others traveled back to Iran via Malaysia, Oman, and Turkiye.