Two Iranian Footballers Who Defied Tehran Gain Australian Citizenship

Sun Sep 06 2026 18:55:42 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Iranian women who publicly defied their government during a war gained Australian citizenship after seeking asylum amid a regional conflict.

Atefeh Ramezanisadeh and Fatemeh Pasandideh, members of Iran’s national women’s team, were granted Australian citizenship in Brisbane after refusing to sing Iran’s anthem during the Women’s Asian Cup in March, amid escalating tensions with Israel and the U.S. While five other teammates returned to Iran, the two women were offered humanitarian visas and chose to stay, receiving certificates at a ceremony with Interior Minister Tony Burke. Their decision comes as Australia prepares to tighten migration rules, raising debates about visa restrictions and asylum rights. The pair now train with A-League Women’s club Brisbane Roar, hoping to continue their elite careers in Australia.

Atefeh Ramezanisadeh (left) and Fatemeh Pasandideh (right) at their citizenship ceremony

Two Iranian footballers who defied Tehran become Australian citizens

Two members of Iran’s national women’s football team, 34‑year‑old Atefeh Ramezanisadeh and 22‑year‑old Fatemeh Pasandideh, were naturalised as citizens of Australia this week in Brisbane after refusing to sing Iran’s anthem at the Women’s Asian Cup.

The pair, who had been granted humanitarian visas while in Australia in March, chose to stay despite pressure from the Iranian community and fears of reprisals back home. Their naturalisation was announced by Interior Minister Tony Burke, who handed the women their passports at a ceremony attended by Australian officials.

While seven players from the Iranian squad were given the chance to seek asylum, five eventually returned to Tehran, reportedly after being urged to do so by family witnesses of threats to their relatives.

The story unfolded against a backdrop of conflict: on 28 February, Israel and the United States launched joint air strikes on Iranian targets, and Iran’s state media branded the girls who declined to sing the national anthem “traitors.” Human rights groups have warned that the players who returned could face persecution.

Australia is expected to tighten visa rules this year, limiting asylum seekers’ work rights and cutting family visa options. The new policy comes amid growing political pressure for stricter migration controls.

Ramezanisadeh said the day of citizenship was “truly special and unforgettable,” while Pasandideh described the moment as a “new beginning.” Both are now training with Brisbane Roar, hoping to extend their professional careers in the A‑League Women.