Argentine footballer detained by ICE while en route to U.S. match

Matías Alejandro Pourrain, an Argentine semi-professional soccer player for Miami United, is currently detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Florida. His arrest occurred as he was preparing to travel with his team for a championship semifinal game.

According to a Department of Homeland Security spokesperson, Pourrain was detained at Fort Lauderdale International Airport last Thursday. The reason for his detention is an alleged violation of U.S. immigration law, specifically overstaying his visa. He legally entered the United States on November 12, 2019, with permission to stay for six months, but reportedly remained in the country beyond May 11, 2020.

Pourrain, 34, is being held at the Glades County detention center and faces deportation. His team, Miami United, which competes in the fourth division of U.S. soccer in the United Premier Soccer League (UPSL), expressed deep regret over his detention. The club stated it is cooperating with all involved parties and has provided legal assistance to Pourrain and his family.

Reports suggest that Pourrain had applied for an extension of his stay, but the process was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. During this period, he obtained a work permit. His detention by ICE follows closely on the heels of the arrest of former Colombian footballer Diego Serna at Miami International Airport on drug trafficking charges.