Iranian Women's Soccer Players Begin First Official Training After Asylum in Australia

Iranian women's soccer players who sought asylum in Australia have opened a new chapter in their careers, stepping back onto the pitch in a foreign land. Fatemeh Pasandideh and Atefeh Ramezanisadeh, after settling under the protection of the Australian government, completed their first official training session with the Brisbane Roar club on March 16, 2026, laying the foundation for their comeback.

The Brisbane Roar club released photos on its official social media showing the two players training with teammates without wearing hijabs. Kaz Patafata, CEO of Brisbane Roar, stated that the club would provide a supportive environment as the players take their next steps, while inquiries regarding administrative procedures, including the players' legal status, have been referred to the Australian Department of Home Affairs.

The Australian government had offered asylum to the entire Iranian women's national football team, and Pasandideh and Ramezanisadeh have been confirmed as players granted asylum by the Australian government. Earlier, then-U.S. President Donald Trump had urged the Australian government to grant asylum to the Iranian women's footballers.

Meanwhile, national team players who did not opt for asylum returned home after leaving Sydney. Of the seven team members who ultimately remained in Australia, at least five have since returned to Iran. Mohammad Reza Aref, Iran's First Vice President, emphasized assurances of safety and security for the returning players and reiterated a stance against external interference in the country's internal affairs.