FIFA President Gianni Infantino commented on Omar Artan, a Somali referee who was slated to officiate at the 2026 World Cup but was denied entry into the United States. The incident occurred at Miami International Airport. Artan arrived in the country on a diplomatic passport, yet he was not granted permission to enter, with no specific reasons provided. Consequently, the referee was sent back to Turkey.
“What happened to Omar is regrettable. But again, we cannot control everything. We try, we discuss, we examine the situation. Perhaps it’s best to simply calm down and relax.
We are endeavoring to resolve all matters. Sometimes, shouting and indignation have the opposite effect. You may not believe me if you don’t wish to, but we are always seeking solutions. We are not masters of the world,” stated Infantino, as reported by The Athletic.
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