Iranian climber Elnaz Rekabi flies home

An Iranian sport climber considered a “heroine” by many has returned home. 

Elnaz Rekabi, 33, broke Iran’s sticky dress code when competing at the Asian Championships. 

When she arrived at Tehran airport, she was met by a large crowd. 

But Rekabi said her hijab had fallen off “inadvertently” – something many don’t believe. Her fans think the explanation she gave over Instagram was written under duress. 

Iran is currently in the midst of mass protesting against compulsory hijab laws and the nation’s clerical establishment. 

Her family met her at the airport, and video shows supporters clapping and chanting “Elnaz is a heroine.” 

Following the video of her competing with her hair uncovered, Ms Rekabi’s friends said they could not contact her and they raised concerns over her safety. 

But on Tuesday, she issued her Instagram statement and when landing back at Tehran airport she made a brief statement to state media.