Iran’s women’s team decline to sing national anthem before Asian Cup tie

Guardian Sport

by Tom Garry

March 3, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Iran’s women’s football team made a bold statement during their opening match of the Asian Cup in Australia by refusing to sing their national anthem before facing South Korea. The decision came as the players stood silently during the pre-game ceremony, with coach Marziyeh Jafari and her team declining to comment on the ongoing war in the Middle East or the recent death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran’s long-serving leader. This marked their first match since the conflict began, adding significant context to their actions. The match, held at Gold Coast Stadium in Queensland, saw South Korea secure a 3-0 victory over Iran. The silence of the Iranian team during the anthem was seen by many as a form of protest or solidarity, given the political climate back home. While Jafari and her players avoided addressing the situation directly with the media, their actions spoke volumes about the broader implications of sports in times of conflict. This incident highlights the intersection of sport and politics, a theme that resonates with readers interested in how global events impact athletic competitions and athletes. By refusing to engage in the national anthem tradition—a symbolic gesture often expected of teams representing their country—the Iranian players drew attention to the complexities of competing during periods of war and political instability. The decision also raises questions about whether this could set a precedent for other athletes or teams to use similar methods of protest in the future. For now, Iran’s women’s team has made their mark on the Asian Cup, not just through their gameplay but through their silent statement on the world stage.

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Originally published on Guardian Sport on 3/3/2026