Somali referee barred from entering United States, cannot officiate World Cup, reports FOX 13 News Utah

FOX 13 News Utah reports that a Somali football referee was denied entry to the United States. The denial prevents the official from traveling to the World Cup venue. The referee had been scheduled to officiate matches at the tournament. U.S. immigration authorities cited unspecified reasons for the refusal. The incident has sparked concerns among the international sports community. Somali officials expressed disappointment over the decision. The World Cup organizers must now adjust officiating assignments. The case highlights broader issues of travel restrictions for officials.