Ferdinand Omanyala will not take part in the World Athletics Championship in Eugene, Oregon because of a delay in processing his Visa to the United States.
This was revealed by Africa's fastest man's statement issued via his spokesperson.
"Sadly, I won't be participating in this year's world championships in Oregon. I did not get my visa in time for travel," Omanyala said.
Omanyala expressed his disappointment in missing the opportunity because he had invested so much in terms of training which he did with some pain.
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"It's hard for me too because we worked hard and even trained through pain, but like I always say, positivity, everything happens for a reason," he said.
However, the athlete assured his fans that all will be redeemed at the Budapest World Championship in 2023 and the Commonwealth Games due in a fortnight's time.
Omanyal thanked his fans for their support and prayers.
"We will redeem ourselves at the Budapest world championships next year. We also have the Commonwealth Games coming in two weeks' time. Thanks for the support and prayers," he said.
Kenyans have been outraged by the incident and have taken to social media to vent their disappointment and affirm their support for the athlete.
The US visa delay controversy for our 100M sensation Ferdinand Omanyala should be an International Relations matter. A sportsman of Omanyala's calibre should be treated like a diplomat and accorded such honour. He cannot just be stranded in a visa matter like a commoner!
— Dr. Ezekiel Mutua, MBS (@EzekielMutua) July 14, 2022
The US visa delay controversy for our 100M sensation Ferdinand Omanyala should be an International Relations matter. A sportsman of Omanyala's calibre should be treated like a diplomat and accorded such honour. He cannot just be stranded in a visa matter like a commoner!
— Dr. Ezekiel Mutua, MBS (@EzekielMutua) July 14, 2022
SAD!!!
— Carol Radull (@CarolRadull) July 14, 2022
Africa's fastest man Ferdinand Omanyala will not compete at the World Championships at Oregon, USA after his Visa was delayed.
I can't believe this.#OriginSport pic.twitter.com/PkGZKcv8s2
A list of names of the 32 joyriders from the Ministry of Sports who were granted VISA's to travel to USA to do nothing while true athletes like Omanyala missed out for a chance to compete should be made public.
— UNDERRATED NINJA (@iamjoseh_) July 14, 2022