US blocks World Cup referee from entering country, raising racism concerns

FRISCO. The FIFA World Cup has not even started, but the United States is already facing questions as host nation. A highly respected referee from Somalia has been blocked from officiating in the tournament, and several national teams have been subjected to lengthy and strict checks before being allowed into the country. Meanwhile, FIFA, the international football association, has stood by without intervening. Critics say the actions point to racism in the US visa system. The situation threatens to overshadow the start of the competition.