Australia: Iranian women’s soccer player reveals teammates' location

A member of Iran women's national soccer team who had initially sought asylum in Australia has reversed her decision and contacted the Iranian embassy, reportedly revealing the hiding place of teammates who had also fled, according to a report Wednesday by the Daily Mail.

Tony Burke confirmed that the player’s contact with the embassy exposed the group’s location. “In Australia, people can change their minds and people are free to travel,” Burke said. He added that the athlete had been advised by teammates and the team’s coach to contact the Iranian embassy and arrange to be picked up.

Australian authorities questioned the player to ensure the decision was made voluntarily. However, officials said the disclosure had already compromised the group’s location. Burke said he immediately ordered the remaining players to be moved to a new safe location.

The incident involves Iranian women soccer players who had traveled to Australia for the AFC Women's Asian Cup. During the tournament, several players sparked international attention by remaining silent during the Iranian national anthem, a gesture widely interpreted as a protest against the Iranian regime.

Following the controversy, five members of the team reportedly fled their training camp and sought protection from Australian police while applying for political asylum.

Exiled Iranian opposition figure Reza Pahlavi praised the athletes in a public statement, saying they had joined what he called the “Lion and Sun Revolution.” He described them as “brave athletes who chose to stand with the Iranian people” and urged FIFA to ensure their safety.