Somali referee denied entry to US to receive full World Cup pay, sources say
Somali referee Omar Artan was denied entry to the United States for the World Cup due to alleged associations with terror groups, which he denies. Despite missing the tournament, FIFA has committed to paying his full salary.
Why it matters
The incident highlights the intersection of international sports, immigration security protocols, and the diplomatic challenges faced by individuals from conflict-affected regions.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Omar Artan has been a Fifa referee since 2018
The report presents the facts of the visa denial and the referee's response without taking a side on the security allegations.
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