World Cup: Iranian star 'facing execution' after campaigning for women's rights | OneFootball

Iranian footballer, Amir Nasr-Azadani, could face execution after campaigning for women’s rights in his home country.

Anti-government protests in Iran have been a trending topic at the 2022 World Cup, ever since the tragic death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini.

Amini was arrested after not adhering to Iran’s strict Islamic dress code policy and allegedly died in police custody.

Her death sparked uproar in the country and led to Iranian players refusing to sing their national anthem prior to taking on England in their opening World Cup game as a clear act of protest.

Hundreds of furious fans inside stadiums across Qatar were also seen holding up ‘Mahsa Amini 22’ shirts, as well as anti-government material.

Who is Nasr-Azadani?

Azadani is an Iranian footballer, who last played in the Persian Gulf Pro League for Tractor S.C.

He has reportedly been very active with his campaigning against the existing authoritarian regime that rules over Iran and now could be ‘facing execution’ as a result.

FIFPRO, who represent more than 65,000 footballers worldwide, released a statement following the news on Monday evening.

What did FIFPRO say?

The statement: “FIFPRO is shocked and sickened by reports that professional footballer Amir Nasr-Azadani faces execution in Iran after campaigning for women’s rights and basic freedom in his country.

“We stand in solidarity with Amir and call for the immediate removal of his punishment.”

FIFA were under heavy pressure to expel Iran from the World Cup prior to it taking place but opted to allow them to compete.

Consequently, manager Carlos Queiroz and the players came under fire regularly in the press for not openly condemning the situation in their nation.

Queiroz, in particular, was involved in a couple of angry outbursts when asked questions related to the topic.

Iran were eliminated in the group stage of the competition after losing 1-0 to USA in their final game.