Somali World Cup Referee Barred After Being Turned Away at U.S. Border

A Somali football referee was removed from the World Cup lineup. The removal followed his being turned back at a United States border checkpoint. RFI reported the incident. The referee had been slated to officiate matches at the tournament. The border denial prevented his travel to the event. Organizers responded by dropping him from the roster. The case raises questions about travel clearance for officials. Future tournaments may review entry procedures for participants.