Just days ahead of the biggest football tournament, Somali international referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan, named the 2025 CAF Referee of the Year and selected to officiate at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, has been denied entry into the United States and will not participate in the tournament.
Somali referee Omar Artan denied US entry; to miss 2026 FIFA World Cup
Artan, who was set to become the first Somali referee to officiate at a World Cup, arrived at Miami International Airport from Istanbul on Saturday but was turned away by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), as per ESPN Africa.
Officials cited “vetting concerns” as the reason for determining him inadmissible, despite his selection by FIFA and possession of a valid travel visa and diplomatic passport.
FIFA confirmed on Monday that Artan “will be unable to train and officiate at the FIFA World Cup 2026.” The 34-year-old from Mogadishu had made history earlier by becoming the first Somali to referee a CAF Champions League final and by officiating at the Africa Cup of Nations.
The incident has sparked widespread debate as the United States co-hosts the 2026 tournament alongside Canada and Mexico. Critics argue it undermines the inclusive spirit of the global event, while supporters of the decision emphasize national security priorities, particularly given longstanding U.S. travel restrictions related to Somalia.
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