Somali football referee Omar Artan, who had been selected by FIFA to officiate at the World Cup, was denied entry into the United States despite holding all valid documents and a visa. After a long journey from Istanbul, Artan arrived at Miami International Airport, where US border officials detained and questioned him for about 11 hours before refusing him entry. FIFA later confirmed that Artan would not be able to participate in any training or match duties for the tournament.
Upon returning to Somalia, Artan expressed disappointment, saying he believed the issue was related to his nationality. His arrival at Mogadishu airport turned into an emotional scene as hundreds of supporters greeted him with national flags, celebrating him as a national hero despite his missed opportunity.
Artan encouraged Somali youth not to lose hope in their country, vowing to aim for the next World Cup. His resilience and patriotism have resonated deeply with football fans around the world.
স্পোর্টস ডেস্ক প্রকাশ : ১১ জুন ২০২৬, ১২: ৫১আপডেট : ১১ জুন ২০২৬, ১৩: ৪৬ বিশ্বকাপের মঞ্চে ম্যাচ পরিচালনা করার স্বপ্ন নিয়ে দেশ ছেড়েছিলেন সোমালিয়ার ফুটবল রেফারি ওমর আর্তান। ফিফার চূড়ান্ত তালিকায় নাম আসায় প্রথম সোমালি কর্মকর্তা হিসেবে বিশ্বকাপে ইতিহাস গড়া
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