Iranian Women's Soccer Team Seeks Asylum After Threats from IRGC

Players flee hotel where they were monitored by regime agents, as Trump offers asylum in the U.S.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Members of the Iranian women's soccer team currently in Australia have sought asylum after receiving threats from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) over their refusal to sing the Iranian national anthem. Several players have escaped their hotel, where they were being monitored by IRGC agents, and are now in contact with lawyers. Others remain trapped, worried about the consequences for their families back in Iran if they also flee. Former U.S. President Trump has offered asylum to any of the players in the United States.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing human rights abuses and suppression of dissent by the Iranian regime, particularly against women who dare to challenge the authorities. The plight of the Iranian women's soccer team shines a light on the broader struggle for freedom and equality in Iran, as well as the difficult choices faced by activists who risk severe consequences for speaking out.

The details

The Iranian women's soccer team was in Australia to play a match, but refused to sing the Iranian national anthem in protest against the regime. In response, the IRGC began threatening the players and their families back in Iran. Several players have now escaped their hotel, where they were being monitored by IRGC agents, and are seeking asylum. Others remain trapped, fearing retribution against their loved ones if they also try to flee.

  • The Iranian women's soccer team was in Australia this weekend for a match.
  • On Saturday, players refused to sing the Iranian national anthem in protest.
  • Immediately after, the IRGC began threatening the players and their families.
  • On Sunday, several players escaped their hotel and sought asylum.
  • Former U.S. President Trump has offered asylum to any of the players in the U.S.

The players

Iranian Women's Soccer Team

The national women's soccer team of Iran, who were in Australia for a match.

Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC)

The elite military and security force of Iran, which has been accused of human rights abuses and suppressing dissent.

Donald Trump

The former President of the United States, who has offered asylum to any of the Iranian women's soccer players.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.