Iran’s women’s football captain Zahra Ghanbari has withdrawn her asylum application in Australia, becoming the fifth player to reverse course.
State media reported she will return to Iran via Malaysia, leaving only two of the original seven defectors still in Australia.
The players first sought sanctuary after refusing to sing Iran’s anthem at the Asian Cup, sparking fears of reprisals.
Human rights activists say families were threatened by authorities, pressuring athletes to return.
Iranian outlets hailed Ghanbari’s move as “patriotic,” while Australian officials insisted the women were given genuine choices.
The episode highlights the risks faced by Iranian athletes who defy state expectations amid heightened regional tensions.
