The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has sought to reassure the public that the 2028 Los Angeles Games will not be marred by the same immigration issues that have plagued the FIFA World Cup. In a statement, IOC Vice President Kirsty Coventry expressed confidence that the necessary measures will be taken to prevent any similar incidents from occurring.
Coventry pointed to the IOC's plan to establish a taskforce to address any issues that may arise during the Games. This move comes in response to the controversy surrounding top referee Omar Artan from Somalia, who was denied entry into the US due to immigration concerns.
The incident has raised questions about the ability of foreign nationals to participate in major sporting events in the US. The US Department of Homeland Security has strict guidelines for the admission of foreign nationals, and it appears that Artan's application was denied due to these regulations.
The IOC has insisted that it will work closely with the US authorities to ensure that all necessary arrangements are in place for the 2028 Games. Coventry stated that the IOC is 'confident' that the LA Games will be a success, and that the taskforce will be able to address any issues that may arise.
The US Embassy in Somalia has advised British nationals to 'exercise increased caution' when travelling to the US due to the risk of arbitrary detention and 'long-term detention, including in facilities with inadequate access to necessary medical care and due process'. The UK Foreign Office has also warned of the potential risks involved in travelling to the US for the World Cup and other sporting events.