In brief
Two Iranian women's footballers, Fatemeh Pasandideh and Atefeh Ramezanisadeh, who sought asylum in Australia, have begun training with Brisbane Roar FC. While the duo expresses optimism for their future, their fellow teammates' change of heart regarding asylum raises concerns about pressures back home. The club has extended a warm welcome, aiming to provide a supportive environment for the players. This development comes amid intense political situations back in Iran.
Two members of Iran's national women's football team who sought asylum in Australia have been pictured training at the grounds of the A-league football team Brisbane Roar.
Everything will be fine, one of them, Fatemeh Pasandideh, posted on Instagram.
She and Atefeh Ramezanisadeh were among seven Iranian footballers who initially expressed their intention to seek asylum during their trip for the Women's Asian Cup in Australia. However, the other five players later reversed their decision.
The footballers were granted humanitarian visas to stay in Australia following concerns that they would face repercussions for not singing the Iranian national anthem at their opening Asian Cup match.
The five players who changed their minds have since left Australia and are believed to be on their way home.
Brisbane Roar women's squad shared photos of Pasandideh and Ramezanisadeh smiling with other team members on the club's social media platforms, illustrating their integration into the club.
Brisbane Roar FC's Chief Executive Kaz Patafta welcomed both players officially and stated that the club aims to provide a supportive environment for them as they transition into their new lives in Australia.
After the Iranian players chose not to sing the anthem during the Women's Cup on March 2, they were relocated to Brisbane, where they sought protection from the Australian Federal Police.
Human rights activists have expressed concern, stating that the players who left might have faced pressure or threats against their families to reverse their asylum requests.
As the request for asylum was granted for the five players, Brisbane Roar FC extended a statement expressing their admiration for the Iranian women's football team.
The club emphasized their desire to welcome elite athletes who are passionate about football into their community.
