World cup referee banned by U.S., hailed as hero at home : NPR
NPR • • sports
Key Points:
- Omar Artan, poised to become Somalia's first-ever World Cup referee, was denied entry to the U.S. despite holding a diplomatic passport and valid visa, leading to a hero's welcome upon his return to Mogadishu.
- Thousands gathered in Mogadishu to celebrate Artan, who expressed determination to attend the next World Cup and encouraged Somali youth to pursue their goals.
- U.S. officials, including Andrew Giuliani, defended the denial, citing concerns over Artan's alleged associations with suspected terror organization members, though no specific evidence has been publicly shared.
- The decision has sparked outrage in Somalia, with government officials and citizens questioning why such concerns were not raised during the visa process, especially given Somalia's cooperation with the U.S. against Al-Shabaab.
- Artan's inability to enter the U.S. means he cannot train at the World Cup tournament hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, which begins in Mexico City this week.