Iran anthem protest: Female footballers ‘proud’ to become Australian

What the report says

Two former Iranian women footballers, Fatemeh Pasandideh and Atefeh Ramezanisadeh, have been granted Australian citizenship after taking part in a widely watched protest at the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup. According to Al Jazeera, the pair declined to sing Iran’s national anthem before a match in March, a gesture that led to backlash in Iran and accusations of betrayal.

Al Jazeera reported that the citizenship ceremony took place on Wednesday and was overseen by Australia’s Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke. The two athletes were among seven people from Iran’s delegation who sought protection in Australia after the anthem protest. Five of the seven later reversed course and returned to Iran, leaving the status of the remaining delegation members unclear.

Both women said in statements that they felt proud and grateful to become Australian citizens. Brisbane Roar, the club where they trained shortly after seeking asylum, also welcomed the development and said Queensland was now their home. The club’s comments suggested the players had faced an unusually difficult period since February, though that timeline should be understood in the context of Al Jazeera’s reporting rather than as a separate factual finding.

The episode has broader significance because it highlights the tensions faced by athletes who publicly challenge political symbols, as well as the contrasting responses from Australian authorities, Iranian officials and football organizations.