Somali referee dropped from World Cup after US entry denied
5 verified5 unconfirmed
Omar Artan, a Somali referee who was set to become the first Somali official at a World Cup finals, has been removed from the list of tournament referees after being denied entry to the United States. Artan arrived at Miami International Airport but was barred from entering the country, according to multiple reports. The United States is one of three host nations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which runs from June 11 to July 19. Somalia is among countries on a travel ban list introduced by the Trump administration. FIFA confirmed that Artan will miss the tournament, stating the host government ultimately determines visa decisions. Artan had been among 52 referees selected by FIFA to officiate matches during the event.
What’s verified
Somali referee Omar Artan was denied entry to the United States ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Artan was set to be the first Somali to officiate at a World Cup finals.
Somalia is included on a travel ban list imposed by the Trump administration.
FIFA confirmed that Artan will not be able to train or officiate at the tournament.
The World Cup runs from June 11 to July 19 across Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
Not yet confirmed
The specific reason for Artan’s denial of entry has not been publicly issued by US immigration authorities.
A single source reported that Artan is currently in Turkey and that he had a valid visa.
A single source reported that the Somali Football Federation has contacted FIFA for clarification.
A single source reported comments from a White House task force leader and Somali officials.
A single source reported that an Iraqi national team player and photographer had entry difficulties, and that Iranian players received last-minute visas.
Key figures
Omar Abdulkadir Artan – Somali football referee, 2025 CAF men’s referee of the year
Andrew Giuliani – leader of the White House Task Force on the World Cup (per single source)
Sources: BBC News, vox.com
