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Two Iranian players begin new chapter in Australia
Fatemeh Pasandideh and Atefeh Ramezanisadeh, members of Iran's national women's football team, have been photographed training with A-League side Brisbane Roar after securing humanitarian visas to remain in Australia.
Asylum decision splits squad
Pasandideh and Ramezanisadeh were among seven Iranian players who initially sought asylum during the Women's Asian Cup in Australia. However, five teammates later reversed their decision and are believed to have left the country, possibly returning to Iran.
The two remaining players were granted visas after authorities expressed concerns about potential repercussions following the team's refusal to sing the Iranian national anthem before their opening match on 2 March.
Brisbane Roar offers support
The Brisbane-based club shared images of the players training with its A-League Women squad, showing Pasandideh and Ramezanisadeh smiling alongside teammates. Club CEO Kaz Patafta confirmed the players had been welcomed to train with the squad but stated the club would not comment further on their situation.
"We are committed to providing a supportive environment for them as they navigate the next stages,"
Kaz Patafta, Brisbane Roar FC Chief Executive
Players' escape and safety concerns
After the anthem protest, the Iranian team was relocated to Brisbane, approximately an hour north of the Gold Coast where they had been staying. The two players evaded their minders and sought protection from Australian Federal Police.
Human rights activists have suggested that the five players who reversed their asylum bids may have faced pressure, including threats against their families, to return to Iran.
Club's initial response
Last Tuesday, Brisbane Roar released a statement expressing admiration for the Iranian players and offering them a place to train and play without conditions. The club emphasized its commitment to providing a welcoming environment rooted in football and community.
"These are elite footballers-passionate, talented women who love the game just as deeply as we do. Brisbane is home to one of the country's most passionate football communities, and the Roar family has a big heart. We'd be honoured to open our doors and offer you a place to train, play, and belong."
Brisbane Roar FC statement
Broader context
The players' asylum bids unfolded amid heightened tensions in Iran following joint air strikes by Israel and the U.S. on 28 February, which escalated regional instability.
