Overview
- Megan Rapinoe used her A Touch More podcast to praise the Iranian players’ “bravery and courage” and to support those seeking asylum.
- She faced blowback for speaking later than critics wanted, with Piers Morgan calling her stance “hypocritical.”
- The team drew global notice after staying silent for Iran’s national anthem at the Women’s Asian Cup in Australia, and state media labeled them “wartime traitors.”
- Two players remained in Australia under protection and trained with club sides, while several teammates reversed initial asylum offers and returned to Iran.
- Refugee advocates said Australia moved too slowly to secure protection, arguing the process left a less-than-ideal outcome for those at risk.