Two Iranian footballers who sought asylum in Australia – and didn’t return home with their teammates – have revealed their future plans: building a new life Down Under.
Fatemah Pasandideh and Atefeh Ramezanisadeh arrived on local shores in late February with Iran’s women’s national football team to compete in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup.
Fears were sparked for their safety after the footballers boldly refused to sing Iran’s national anthem on live television ahead of a clash against South Korea on the Gold Coast.
The players were branded wartime ‘traitors’ by Iranian state media after the outbreak of war between the US, Israel and Iran.
Before their scheduled departure from Australia, seven members of the delegation were offered humanitarian visas by Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke.
Ultimately, all but Pasandideh and Ramezanisadeh eventually chose to return home.
At the time, Iran’s Tasnim news agency stated the Iranian players had been subjected to ‘psychological warfare, extensive propaganda and seductive offers’ in Australia.
But on Friday, Pasandideh and Ramezanisadeh released a joint statement thanking the federal government for their ‘compassion and support.’
‘We wish to express our deepest gratitude to the Australian Government, and particularly Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke, for granting us humanitarian protection and a safe haven in this beautiful country,’ the statement read.
‘The compassion and support shown to us during this challenging time has provided us with hope for a future where we can live and compete in safety.’
They also thanked the ‘dedicated’ Home Affairs officials for their support.
‘We are overwhelmed by the warmth and generosity of the Iranian diaspora community in Australia,’ the statement read.
‘Your support has made us feel welcome and less alone as we navigate this transition.
‘At this stage, our primary focus is on our safety, our health and beginning the process of rebuilding our lives.
‘We are elite athletes, and it remains our dream to continue our sporting careers here in Australia.’
It is understood both Pasandideh and Ramezanisadeh would like to play in the A-League Women’s competition – but whether they can secure contracts remains to be seen.
The duo ended their statement by emphasising they want to adjust to life in Australia away from the spotlight.
‘We respectfully ask the media for privacy and space at this time,’ the statement continued.
‘We will not be making any further comments or conducting interviews in the immediate future.’