Overview
- Australian authorities confirmed five members of Iran’s women’s delegation withdrew asylum applications and left the country, leaving two under protection with humanitarian visas.
- Iran captain Zahra Ghanbari is among those returning via Malaysia, as the broader delegation transits onward with travel complicated by regional airspace restrictions.
- Iranian state media had labeled the players “traitors,” and rights groups report Tehran has a record of coercing athletes abroad through threats to families or property.
- AFC secretary-general Windsor John said no formal withdrawal has been received and Iran is expected to play, while Iranian officials float venue changes and discuss options with FIFA, including moving matches to Mexico.
- Regional fallout continues to disrupt logistics, with Iraq confirming a private flight to Mexico for its March 31 World Cup playoff despite airspace closures in parts of the Middle East.