@FIFAcom@FIFAWorldCup
So it’s acceptable when a host country’s sensitivities are accommodated, but unthinkable when others do it too?
The precedent matters. Otherwise, “football for all” becomes a selective principle.
FIFA confirm Omar Abdulkadir Artan can’t officiate at the World Cup after being denied entry into the United States.
The Somali referee is one of Africa’s most respected officials. Somalia's Ministry of Youth and Sports say Artan travelled with a valid US visa.
Yet Somalia is on a travel ban list introduced by President Trump’s administration.
🗣️ “FIFA is not involved in host country immigration processes, including visa adjudications, and has been informed by authorities that Mr Artan's status will not be changed at present.
“In line with previous FIFA events, a host government ultimately determines who receives a visa and who is admitted into their country.”
“Why argue with an Arsenal fan when you can just wait?” We waited. We won. We are champions of England - and we are just one game away from being crowned champions of Europe. Read my piece on what Arsenal means to me here: https://t.co/J6cg388mRH