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World Cup Referee Denied US Entry, Out of Tournament
9 Jun
Summary
- Omar Artan was denied entry to the United States and will miss the World Cup.
- US immigration did not provide a specific reason for his denial.
- Fifa stated it is not involved in host country immigration processes.
Omar Artan, the first Somali referee selected for the World Cup finals, has been removed from the officiating list after being denied entry into the United States. He was barred from entering the country at Miami International Airport and is currently in Turkey.
US immigration authorities have not provided a specific reason for Artan's repatriation. However, Somalia is among the nations affected by a travel ban implemented by the current US administration. Following discussions with US authorities, Fifa confirmed Artan's inability to participate in the 2026 World Cup.
Fifa stated that they are not involved in host country immigration procedures, including visa decisions. They have been informed that Mr. Artan's status will not change. A senior advisor to Somalia's ministry of youth and sports confirmed the entry denial, noting Artan possessed valid travel documents. The Somali Football Federation is seeking urgent clarification from Fifa.
Artan, who became a Fifa referee in 2018 and has officiated at the Africa Cup of Nations, was part of the 52-member officiating team for the World Cup finals scheduled to take place in Canada, Mexico, and the United States from June 11 to July 19.
