Former Iranian footballer Shiva Amini condemned the Iranian regime after 19-year-old wrestler Saleh Mohammadi was executed, criticizing forced hijabs and propaganda use of athletes. The controversy follows Iran women’s national footballers refusing the anthem in Australia during the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026, later returning home despite asylum offers, highlighting risks under political pressure.

Former Iranian national footballer Shiva Amini has strongly condemned the Iranian regime following the execution of 19-year-old wrestler Saleh Mohammadi. On X, Amini criticized how athletes are forced into hijabs and used for propaganda, denouncing international voices that normalize the regime’s actions.

The controversy follows an incident during the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026, where members of the Iran women’s national football team refused to sing the national anthem in Australia, prompting fears of retaliation. Despite being offered humanitarian visas, Iranian players later chose to return home, highlighting the difficult choices athletes face under political pressure.

Shiva Amini

These developments underscore the growing tension between sports, politics, and human rights in Iran, drawing global attention to the risks athletes encounter when challenging state expectations. Amini’s comments and the team’s experiences reflect ongoing struggles for freedom, safety, and dignity in Iranian sports.

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