JUST IN: SOMALI REFEREE OMAR ARTAN BLOCKED FROM ENTERING UNITED STATES, RULED OUT OF WORLD CUP DUTIES

SOMALI REFEREE OMAR ARTAN BLOCKED FROM ENTERING UNITED STATES, RULED OUT OF WORLD CUP DUTIES


A major setback has emerged ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026 as Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan has been denied entry into the United States, a development that has now ruled him out of officiating at the tournament.

Artan, who was selected among the officials appointed by FIFA for the global competition scheduled to take place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, was stopped at Miami International Airport and subsequently returned, with reports indicating he is currently in Turkey.

The reason for the denial of entry has not been officially disclosed by US immigration authorities. However, Somalia is reportedly among countries affected by US travel restrictions introduced in recent policy measures, though no direct confirmation has linked Artan’s case to any specific policy decision.

Following discussions with relevant authorities, FIFA confirmed that the 2025 CAF Men’s Referee of the Year will no longer participate in the tournament.

In a statement, FIFA said Artan would be unable to attend training camps or officiate at the World Cup after being denied entry into the host nation. The governing body also noted that visa and entry approvals remain the responsibility of host countries, not FIFA.

FIFA further clarified that it does not control immigration processes and had been informed that Artan’s entry status would not be changed at this time.

Officials from Somalia’s football authorities have raised concerns over the decision, stating that the referee travelled with valid documentation, including a diplomatic passport issued to ease international travel.

The Somali Football Federation has also reportedly contacted FIFA seeking urgent clarification on the situation.

A Somali sports official confirmed that Artan had encountered visa-related challenges in the past, which led to the issuance of diplomatic travel documents to support his international assignments.

Artan, who has been a FIFA-listed referee since 2018, has officiated in major continental competitions including the Africa Cup of Nations and was widely seen as a historic appointment for Somalia on the global stage.

His absence reduces the pool of match officials selected for the expanded 2026 World Cup, which will feature 52 referees.

The incident has drawn attention in football circles, with discussions continuing over immigration procedures and their impact on international sporting events.

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