Video: Hero's welcome for Iranian athlete who defied hijab at sporting event

Iranian athelete who defied her government by competing in an international sporting event without hijab received a rousing welcome at home.

On her arrival at Tehran airport Elnaz Rekabi was welcomed amid cheer and claps. Her vehicle was escorted to an unknown location post her return.

Many have been amazed by the celebratory response given the fears of her prosecution for challenging the conservative Iran regime over the ongoing hijab row.

Rekabi had made headlines at the Asian Sport Climbing Championship for participating  without a headscarf.

Though soon after the event, she had gone missing with reports claiming that her phone and passport were consficated. 

Following speculation, the rock climber had apologised for her actions saying that it was an untentional move.

She is expected to be jailed by Iranian authorities as reports point violation of 1979 Islamic Revolution by the climber.

Also watch: Iran's supreme leader calls hijab protests 'planned rioting' by US, Israel