The Iranian state television presenter threatened the women’s national team for not singing the anthem at the opening match of the AFC Cup.
Posted on March 6, 2026
The global representative organization of professional footballers, FIFPRO, has urged the governing bodies responsible for the 2026 Asian Women’s Football Confederation Cup to protect Iran’s national team after an Iranian state television presenter called them “wartime traitors”.
Both FIFA, world football’s governing body, and the AFC have been called on to “take all necessary measures to ensure the safety of the players of the Iranian women’s national team.”
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Iran women’s national soccer team players did not sing their national anthem before the Asian Cup opener against South Korea in Australia earlier this week.
Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting host Mohammad Reza Shahbazi said in a video that the players showed a lack of patriotism and that their actions amounted to the “pinnacle of dishonour” in images widely circulated on social media.
“Let me just say one thing: traitors in times of war must be treated more severely,” Shahbazi said.
“Anyone who takes a step against the country under conditions of war must be treated more severely. Like this issue of our women’s soccer team not singing the national anthem… these people must be treated more severely.”
In a statement posted on social media platform X, FIFPRO issued a strong and extensive statement outlining its concerns.
“In addition to the dangerous situation the players would face if they return to Iran after the tournament, FIFPRO Asia/Oceania is deeply concerned by reports that Iranian state television has publicly attacked team members for remaining silent during the national anthem before their opening match,” the statement read.
“Footage circulating online shows Mohammad Reza Shahbazi, a state television presenter, asking them to face the ‘stigma of dishonor and betrayal.’
“These statements significantly increase concerns for the safety of the players should they return to Iran after the tournament.
“FIFPRO Asia/Oceania has once again written to the AFC and FIFA, asking them to respect their human rights obligations under the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights and the FIFA Human Rights Policy and protect players.
“We call on the AFC and FIFA to urgently engage with the Iranian Football Association, the Australian Government and all other relevant authorities to ensure that every effort is made to protect the safety of the players.”
Iranian players remained silent when Iran’s anthem was played on the Gold Coast before their opening 3-0 loss to South Korea on Monday, although they sang and waved before a 4-0 loss to hosts Australia three days later.
Reuters news agency has contacted both the Asian Football Confederation, the Iranian football federation and the Asian Cup team for comment.
Before their match against Australia, Iranian forward Sara Didar choked back tears and spoke about the war, while coach Marziyeh Jafari said her players were doing their best to focus on the tournament despite concerns for their families at home.
Iran will face the Philippines on Sunday in their final group match.
