Oregon 2022: Kenya’s Ferdinand Omanyala A Doubt Over Visa Issues

Kenyan sprinter Ferdinand Omanyala is doubtful to compete at the 2022 World Athletics Championships in the United States of America because he is facing visa issues.

The 26-year-old was yet to receive the travel document two days before the 100m heats that kicks off in Eugene, Oregon on Friday.

Omanyala is currently the third fastest man in the world this year behind Americans Fred Kerley and Trayvon Bromell.

“Ferdinand is still waiting for his visa or alternative clearance to depart from Nairobi,” a spokesperson for Omanyala told Reuters.

“It is frustrating but he remains hopeful to make the trip.”

Omanyala is among six Team Kenya members who had not secured their travelling visas on Tuesday ahead of the opening day of the championship.

A former Rugby player, Omanyala is the African fastest man having clocked 9.77 at the Kip Keino Classic in Nairobi in September 2021.

Kenya is sending a contingent of 46 athletes to the event with the team flagged off on Tuesday by President Uhuru Kenyatta.