Iran Women’s Football Team Returns via Turkey After Withdrawing Asylum Requests

Photo Credit: AFP

Members of Iran’s women’s national football team have arrived in Turkey after reversing earlier asylum applications lodged in Australia, bringing a dramatic episode involving the squad closer to resolution.

The team had travelled to Australia for the Women’s Asian Cup but became the focus of international attention when several players sought protection abroad amid tensions linked to events during the tournament.

After days of uncertainty, most of the affected players chose to withdraw their asylum requests. Their decision paved the way for their departure from Australia and subsequent transit through Kuala Lumpur and Oman.

The delegation landed in Istanbul, where visuals showed players dressed in national team gear moving through the airport under tight security presence.

Authorities in Turkey arranged for the team to be escorted from the airport to a hotel, where they are expected to remain briefly before completing their journey.

Reports indicate the players are scheduled to return to Iran, marking the end of their overseas trip and the controversy that followed their participation in the competition.

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Only a small number of team members are said to have remained in Australia, maintaining their asylum requests despite the majority opting to return home.

While Iranian officials have publicly welcomed the players’ decision, international observers and rights groups continue to express concern over the broader circumstances influencing athletes representing the country abroad.