Somali Referee Omar Artan Reacts to US World Cup Ban
Omar Abdulkadir Artan, the award-winning Somali referee selected to become the first Somali official to
referee at a men’s FIFA World Cup, has expressed deep disappointment after being denied entry into
the United States.
Artan was barred from entering the US on Saturday, June 6, 2026, upon arrival at Miami International
Airport, despite holding a valid visa and diplomatic passport.
The US Department of Homeland Security and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) confirmed that
Artan was “determined to be inadmissible due to vetting concerns.”
No further details were provided publicly. Somalia is one of the countries included in the current US
travel restrictions.
FIFA subsequently removed Artan from the list of 52 match officials for the 2026 World Cup, confirming
on Monday, June 8, 2026, that he would be unable to train or officiate at the tournament.
In an interview from Istanbul after being turned back, Artan expressed heartbreak but maintained a
positive outlook. He said: “I had the right papers and everything. I had the right visa. I think that they have a problem with my country.”
He added that despite the setback, he remains focused on his refereeing career and wishes his
colleagues success at the World Cup.
Artan, who was named the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Men’s Referee of the Year in 2025,
described officiating at the World Cup as the pinnacle of his career and a historic moment for Somalia.
Artan’s selection by FIFA was a landmark achievement for Somali football. The denial of entry has
sparked widespread criticism and raised concerns about the impact of US immigration policies on the
2026 World Cup, which is being co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The incident has drawn attention to broader challenges faced by officials and teams from certain
countries during pre-tournament preparations, with reports of visa issues and invasive checks affecting participants from multiple nations.
Artan is currently in Turkey and plans to return to Somalia.
By Oyinkansola Shittu.
