Somali Referee Denied Entry Ahead of World Cup

Omar Abdulkadir Artan, who was set to become the first Somali referee to officiate at a FIFA World Cup event, has been denied entry into the United States. Artan arrived in Miami from Istanbul to perform duties as a match official at the prestigious tournament. However, US immigration authorities reportedly refused him entry and sent him back despite him possessing a valid visa and all required travel documents.

FIFA later confirmed that Artan would no longer be part of the tournament. According to officials, the decision was linked to additional vetting and security-related concerns. Somalia remains among the countries affected by US travel restrictions. Artan, who was named Africa's Best Referee in 2025, had also earned a place on FIFA's elite panel of 52 referees, making the development a significant setback in his career.