Tag: FIFAReferee

Somali Referee Omar Artan Denied Entry to US Despite Valid Visa Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan has been denied entry into the United States ahead of the World Cup, even though he says he had valid travel documents and a proper visa. He was set to become the first Somali referee to officiate at a World Cup finals. However, he was stopped at Miami International Airport and sent back after an extended immigration process. Long Immigration Interview Before Repatriation Artan said immigration officials held him for an 11 hour interview upon arrival. After that, he was placed in a separate holding area for several hours. Later, he was put on a flight back to Istanbul. No official reason for the decision has been shared by US authorities. FIFA Confirms Removal from Tournament The global football governing body confirmed that Artan will not take part in the tournament. FIFA stated that host country immigration processes are outside its control. It added that officials were informed his entry status would not change. Because of tournament rules, he cannot continue training or officiating even at matches held outside the United States. Training Base Requirements in Miami All referees selected for the World Cup are required to stay at a training base in Miami. This setup is part of preparation and security planning for match officials. Refereeing chief Pierluigi Collina has organized this centralized training system for officials taking part in the tournament. Claims of Valid Documents and Visa Artan insisted that he had all required documents, including a valid visa and supporting travel papers. A Somali sports official also confirmed that he was traveling with proper authorization. Reports say a diplomatic passport had been arranged to support his travel after earlier visa issues. Political Context Around Immigration Rules The case comes amid stricter immigration rules affecting several countries, including Somalia. Earlier remarks from US leadership indicated concerns about Somali immigration, which has added sensitivity to the situation. Artan said he felt disappointed, adding that refereeing at the World Cup was the biggest dream of his career.
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Somali Referee Omar Artan Denied US Entry Ahead of World Cup Despite Valid Visa

Somali Referee Omar Artan Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan has been denied…

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