Radio National Breakfast Breakfast Wrap: The dilemma facing the Iranian soccer team
Mar 8, 2026
Tracey Holmes, journalist who covered the Iranian women's football team, and Craig Foster, former Socceroo and human rights advocate, discuss the players' refusal to sing the national anthem and potential dangers if they return home. Dr Firas Abiad, ex-Lebanese health minister and surgeon, reports on casualties and hospital strain from strikes in Beirut. Julian Mangrant, eSafety Commissioner, explains new online age verification and AI safeguards.
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Iranian Team Faces Real Risk After Anthem Protest
- The Iranian women's football team faces a life-or-death dilemma after not singing the national anthem in one match and then singing in the next.
- Craig Foster highlights credible threats, past persecution of Iranian athletes, and international concern about players' safety on return to Iran.
Players Silent Then Sing After Threatening Messages
- Tracey Holmes recalls the first match where players stood silent during the anthem and later sang and saluted under pressure.
- She reports players received threatening messages and some were contacted by family, illustrating immediate coercion tactics.
AFC Must Provide Safe Private Access For Players
- The Asian Football Confederation must ensure players have safe, private access to outside support before they leave Australia.
- Craig Foster urges AFC to provide secure environments and enable contact with lawyers, officials, or trusted people outside the team.