Somalian World Cup referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan has been refused entry to the USA, AFP reports.
The newswire confirmed earlier claims about the incident, saying it took place at Miami airport with the reasons unclear.
Artan was also detained despite having a valid visa.
Somalia is one of the countries that the US currently has entry bans imposed on.
Artan would’ve been the first to represent Somalia at the tournament, having become a FIFA referee in 2018.
He first officiated at the Africa Cup of Nations in 2023, and last year was named Referee of the Year by the African Football Federation.
Artan was one of 52 referees appointed by FIFA for the 2026 World Cup and they will now have to find a replacement.
More details will be provided as they are confirmed.
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