Somali World Cup Referee Denied US Entry Despite Valid Visa

Omar Abdulkadir Artan, acclaimed as one of Africa’s best referees, has broken his silence after US authorities turned him back at Miami International Airport. Despite holding the correct visa and FIFA documentation, the 34-year-old was detained in a holding cell for hours and then sent on a flight to Istanbul. He says he showed career records and awards but received no clear reason for the ban. US Customs and Border Protection later stated he was subject to “additional inspection” and ruled inadmissible over unspecified vetting concerns. The decision abruptly ended his dream of officiating at this year’s World Cup.

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