A prominent international football referee has left Iran due to threats and pressure from the country’s security forces, according to information exclusively obtained by Iran International.

The revelation that Mahsa Ghorbani departed follows a recent interview with the Shargh Network in which she highlighted challenges faced by female referees in Iran.

"I cannot continue my work or life in a country where my safety is constantly under threat," Ghorbani was quoted as saying.

Ghorbani could not be reached for comment and Iranian authorities have yet to comment on the case.

Iranian sport news website Tarafdari quoted a former Iranian referee as saying that Ghorbani intends to live in Europe but will not be seeking political asylum.

The referee had been slated to participate in high-profile competitions such as last year’s Tehran derby, officiating in the VAR room. However, opposition from government authorities and state-affiliated media prevented her involvement.

Ghorbani also missed the chance to officiate at the 2022 Qatar World Cup because she was barred from overseeing men’s matches in Iran due to her gender.

The incident is part of a broader trend of Iranian athletes seeking refuge abroad due to increasing political and social pressures.

Last month, 15-year-old table tennis player Baran Arjmand sought police protection in Denmark, refusing to return to Iran after participating in a championship.

Iranian judoka Saeid Mollaei and alpine skier Atefeh Ahmadi have similarly sought asylum in recent years, citing political and social pressures.

Ghorbani’s departure underscores rising tension between Iranian authorities and professionals in sports, the arts and academia, many of whom are leaving the country due to safety concerns and economic hardships.