Some Iranian soccer players granted asylum by Australia chose to return home, local official says

Australia City Councilor Tina Kordrostami discusses the threats and difficult decisions Iranian female soccer players are facing on ‘Fox Report.’

Three of the six Iranian women's soccer players who accepted asylum in Australia are returning to Iran, according to Tina Kordrostami, a councilor for the Australian City of Ryde. 

Kordrostami told Fox News Channel's "Fox Report With Jon Scott" Saturday that the three players are returning, calling it an "upsetting update," but she could not discuss exact reasons why. 

"They are heavily intimidated and being communicated to directly by the regime," Kordrostami said. 

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Iranian players react during their national anthem ahead of a Women's Asian Cup soccer match against the Philippines in Robina, Australia, March 8, 2026.  (Dave Hunt/AAP Image via AP)

When asked if the players are being threatened, Kordrostami said, "I don't think that, I know that.

"I know families have even been detained. I know family members are missing. One thing I really would like for people in the West to understand is that Iranians within the country have in many ways given up on the West, and they are only relying on one another to survive this regime. 

"So, when we do offer them a way out, it's not often that easy for them to understand that it is in fact a way out. They are more so used to relying on one another and this is survival for them."

Kordrostami added that the women who return face potential severe consequences. 

"We are very worried about them. We know for a fact that they will not be safe. I've mentioned this before. When you do break a contract as an athlete in Iran, you can face the death penalty. So, I know these women are young. I