Published • loading... • Updated
Somali Referee Denied US Entry, Won’t Officiate at World Cup
CBP said additional inspection found he was inadmissible due to vetting concerns, ending his chance to officiate World Cup matches, FIFA said.
- On Saturday, Somali referee Omar Artan was denied entry at Miami International Airport and will not officiate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection cited "vetting concerns" for the rejection, as Somalia remains one of 12 nations subject to U.S. travel restrictions imposed last week.
- FIFA had selected Artan as one of 52 referees for the tournament; he was named the 2025 Confederation of African Football men's referee of the year.
- Former Somali Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire expressed "unwavering support" for Artan, while FIFA confirmed he cannot train or officiate at the tournament.
- If Canada or Mexico issue visas, Artan could still participate in the World Cup, as advocates argue he should be judged by merit rather than his passport.
Insights by Ground AI
37 Articles
37 Articles
The IndependentReposted by 
The Independent (US)
The Independent (US)Hilary Clinton slams decision to deny Somali World Cup ref entry into US
·London, United Kingdom
Read Full Article
Somali Omar Abdulkdadir Artan remains "positive, despite the decision of the American authorities, who refused to enter the country on Monday, to arbitrate at the World Cup.
Repressed upon his arrival in the United States, Somali umpire Omar Artan arouses indignation and international support. Fifa, on the other hand, chose not to support her referee and to stand behind politics...
Africa: World Cup - Africa's Best Referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan Denied US Visa
A Somali referee celebrated as Africa's best has reportedly been denied entry into the United States and sent back to Turkey upon arrival at Miami International Airport, preventing him from officiating at the upcoming Fifa World Cup, according to the world football governing body Fifa.
·South Africa
Read Full Article
Coverage Details
Total News Sources37
Leaning Left9Leaning Right2Center10Last UpdatedBias Distribution48% Center
Bias Distribution
- 48% of the sources are Center
48% Center
L 43%
C 48%
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
