Somali referee Omar Artan removed from World Cup after US entry denial
6 verified4 unconfirmed2 contested
Somali referee Omar Artan, who was set to become the first Somali to officiate a World Cup, has been removed from the tournament after being denied entry into the United States. Artan arrived at Miami International Airport and was told to return to Istanbul, Turkey, according to multiple reports. FIFA confirmed that Artan will be unable to train or officiate at the 2026 World Cup, which is co-hosted by the US, Mexico, and Canada. Somalia is among several countries affected by US travel bans imposed under the Trump administration, though the specific reason for Artan’s denial remains unclear. In a statement, Artan thanked FIFA and the Confederation of African Football (CAF) for their support and wished his colleagues success. The incident is part of broader travel difficulties reported for teams and officials heading to the tournament.
What’s verified
Omar Artan, a Somali referee, was denied entry into the United States at Miami International Airport.
He was removed from the list of World Cup officials after FIFA confirmed he would be unable to participate.
Artan was named the 2025 CAF men’s referee of the year (Africa’s best referee).
Somalia is among countries affected by US travel bans under President Donald Trump’s administration.
A senior adviser at Somalia’s Ministry of Youth and Sports confirmed the denial of entry.
Artan issued a statement thanking FIFA and CAF and wishing his colleagues success at the World Cup.
Where accounts differ
One source states that US Customs and Border Protection said Artan was denied entry due to “vetting concerns” that made him “inadmissible.” Another source reports that no reason for his repatriation was issued by US immigration authorities.
One source includes a comment from White House Task Force official Andrew Giuliani supporting the decision; the other source does not mention this.
Not yet confirmed
The specific reason for Artan’s entry denial beyond general “vetting concerns” or a lack of stated reason.
A single report indicates Artan was issued a diplomatic passport to ease travel after earlier visa difficulties.
The same report states that the Somali Football Federation has contacted FIFA for clarification.
A single report details visa issues for the Iranian national team and the questioning of Iraqi striker Aymen Hussein at US airports.
Key figures
Omar Abdulkadir Artan (Somali referee)
Ciise Aden Abshir (senior adviser, Somalia Ministry of Youth and Sports)
Andrew Giuliani (White House Task Force on the World Cup)
Amir Ghalenoei (Iran national team coach)
Aymen Hussein (Iraq striker)
Sources: BBC News, dw.com
