Kids’ nonprofit in Seattle returns 20 free World Cup tickets over barring of Somali referee
The nonprofit said the 20 tickets should go to another community group after parents urged a show of solidarity with the barred referee.
- On Friday, Ali Abdulla, founder of the African Youth Sports Academy, returned 20 World Cup tickets to protest the U.S. government's denial of entry to Somali referee Omar Artan.
- Despite having a visa, Artan was denied entry at Miami International Airport last Saturday under the Trump administration's immigration ban affecting nearly 40 countries; officials alleged terror connections without offering proof.
- Abdulla initially considered resigning as a volunteer ambassador, but parents and coaches urged him to return the tickets instead, saying, "We feel heartbroken, we feel betrayed."
- Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson's office confirmed the 20 tickets, part of a 1,400-ticket program, were reallocated to the Somali Health Board, which also sponsors youth soccer.
- European soccer body UEFA named Artan referee for its Aug. 12 Super Cup match, while Abdulla now organizes the 28th annual Somali Week in Kent, bringing teams from Canada and the United Kingdom.
14 Articles
14 Articles
Associated Press News
Kids' nonprofit in Seattle returns 20 free World Cup tickets over barring of Somali referee
A youth-soccer nonprofit in Seattle has returned 20 free World Cup tickets to protest the U.S. decision to bar Somali referee Omar Artan from entering the country.
GhanaSoccernet
GH HeadlinesSomalia president Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to reward Omar Artan with five-bedroom house after World Cup disappointment
Somalia President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is reportedly set to reward renowned referee Omar Artan with a five-bedroom house in recognition of his achievements and resilience following his heartbreaking absence from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.According to reports, arrangements are already being made for the special gesture, which comes shortly after Artan was denied the opportunity to officiate at footballs biggest tournament despite earning a place a…
He was to become the first Somali referee at a World Cup. But Omar Artan is not allowed to enter the USA. In his home country, the referee is still celebrated as a national hero.
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