Two Iranian female footballers have expressed their delight at receiving Australian citizenship following their decision to refuse singing the national anthem during a Women’s Asian Cup match in March. Fatemeh Pasandideh and Atefeh Ramezanisadeh were among seven members of Iran’s delegation who sought protection from Australia after the high-profile protest. The citizenship ceremony was overseen by Australia’s Minister for Home Affairs Tony Burke.
Both athletes have described the moment as deeply meaningful. Ramezanisadeh stated she felt “proud and deeply grateful,” while Pasandideh emphasized how much the achievement meant to her after facing significant challenges. The pair subsequently joined Brisbane Roar, an Australian football club that publicly congratulated them on their new citizenship status, with club representatives noting their willingness to support the players as they settle into their new home.
Of the original seven who initially sought asylum, five ultimately chose to return to Iran. Those who went back crossed into the country via Turkey, wearing national team tracksuits. Iranian political leaders later praised the returning members, describing them as patriots who resisted foreign pressure. The current situation of those who returned remains unclear, though government officials claimed they had made the patriotic choice.
Originally reported by Aljazeera →
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