Five Iranian women's national soccer team players have allegedly defected during the AFC Women's Asian Cup 2026 in Australia and are being housed in a safe location managed by the Australian Federal Police.
The players departed their team hotel on the Gold Coast with the help of authorities, sparking concerns for their safety due to heightened geopolitical tensions and threats aimed at the team.
The global footballers' union FIFPRO and human rights advocates have called upon the Australian government and tournament organizers to prolong the team's stay in the country until their safety can be assured.
US President Donald Trump has urged the Australian Prime Minister to grant asylum to the team members, stating that they will likely be killed if returned to Iran.
The row erupted when the Iranian team declined to sing the national anthem before their first match, leading to a strong reaction from Iranian state media and labeling the players as "wartime traitors".
