Iranian footballers who defied Tehran become Australian citizens
Summary
Two Iranian women football players who avoided singing their national anthem during a tournament in Australia have become Australian citizens. They were granted humanitarian visas in Australia and chose to stay, while other team members returned to Iran.Key Facts
- Atefeh Ramezanisadeh (34) and Fatemeh Pasandideh (22) were naturalized as Australian citizens in Brisbane.
- They were part of Iran’s national team at the Women’s Asian Cup in Australia in March.
- Seven Iranian players received humanitarian visas while in Australia; only these two stayed.
- The players did not sing Iran’s anthem during their opening match amid international conflict involving Iran.
- Some players who initially sought asylum returned to Iran, possibly due to pressure or threats.
- Iranian state media called players who stayed “traitors” and praised those who returned.
- The Australian government is planning stricter visa rules for migrants and asylum seekers.
- The two players now train with Brisbane Roar, an Australian women's professional football team.
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