Trump's immigration police detain Argentine footballer playing in US league
Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Argentine footballer Matías Pourrain was detained by US immigration authorities at Fort Lauderdale airport.
- Pourrain, who plays in a US league, has a pending asylum case, a valid work permit, and no criminal record.
- His family is seeking public support to help secure his release and ensure his rights are respected.
US immigration authorities have detained Matías Pourrain, a 34-year-old Argentine footballer playing in a United States league. The detention occurred at Fort Lauderdale airport as Pourrain was preparing to board a domestic flight to Los Angeles, according to a statement from his family.
Pourrain's family emphasized that he entered the United States legally on a visa and has a pending asylum case that has been ongoing for years. They also stated he possesses a valid work permit, a Florida ID, and no criminal history. The family is denouncing the detention and has launched a public appeal for help through media and social networks to raise awareness and support for his case.
Pourrain currently plays for Club Lyon in Florida, competing in the National Independent Soccer Association (NISA). Previously, he played in Argentina for Real Pilar. His family highlighted that over the years, Pourrain has worked, paid taxes, maintained his documentation, and built a life and community in the US.
He remains in ICE custody while his lawyer works to secure his release and ensure his rights are respected. His family described him as a son, family member, friend, colleague, and a beloved individual, stressing that behind every immigration case is a real human being with a life built over years. They are urging people to share his story to ensure his situation does not go unnoticed, hoping for his swift return home to continue his immigration process in freedom.
Originally published by La Nación in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.