Two members of Iran’s women’s soccer team who have sought asylum in Australia expressed their gratitude toward the federal government and the community for their warm welcome.

Fatemeh Pasandideh and Atefeh Ramezanisadeh stated that their primary focus is on rebuilding their lives and pursuing their football careers in their new home. Initially, seven players from the Iranian team requested asylum after they refrained from singing the national anthem before their opening match in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup.

The Iranian team participated in the tournament in Australia amid escalating tensions in the Middle East following a US-Israel attack on Iran. Concerns arose regarding the safety of the players returning to Iran, particularly after their decision not to sing the national anthem prior to their game against South Korea.

The Australian government granted humanitarian visas to seven team members, including a staff member, due to fears of persecution if they were to return to Iran. However, five of the players later withdrew their asylum requests and returned home, leaving Pasandideh and Ramezanisadeh as the only two who chose to remain in Australia.

In a joint statement, the pair expressed their heartfelt thanks to the Australian government, especially Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke, for providing them with humanitarian protection and a safe environment. They conveyed that the kindness and support they have received during this difficult period have instilled hope for a future where they can live and compete safely.

They also acknowledged the assistance from Home Affairs staff in recent weeks and expressed their appreciation for the Iranian community in Australia, whose generosity has made them feel welcomed and less isolated during their transition.

Currently, their main priorities are ensuring their safety and health while embarking on the journey of rebuilding their lives. As elite athletes, they aspire to continue their sporting careers in Australia but have requested privacy, indicating they are not ready to publicly share their experiences at this time. They will not be granting interviews or making further comments in the near future.

Pasandideh and Ramezanisadeh have joined A-League Women’s club Brisbane Roar for training as they adjust to their new lives in Australia. Kaz Patafta, the club’s chief executive, affirmed the team’s commitment to providing a supportive atmosphere to assist them during this transition.