"We need to stay calm and relax" – Infantino comments on Somali referee's exclusion from World Cup

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has officially addressed for the first time the high-profile scandal surrounding Somali referee Omar Artan, who was denied entry to the United States by American authorities over alleged ties to terrorist organizations.

Details: The head of world football confirmed that the organization was powerless against the strict immigration rules of the host country.

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Infantino expressed regret over the missed historic debut for the referee, but called on the public not to escalate the situation around this incident.

"What happened to him is unfortunate, but we can't control everything. We need to stay calm and relax. With this World Cup, I want to unite the whole world," Infantino stated bluntly.

This statement sparked a mixed reaction within the football community, as many expected FIFA's leadership to take a stronger stand in defending its officials against American authorities.

Reminder: The White House commented on the deportation of Africa's top referee.