A Somali football referee selected for the 2026 FIFA World Cup has been denied entry into the United States after U.S. authorities cited security concerns, ending his hopes of making history at the tournament.
Omar Artan, regarded as one of Africa’s top match officials, was due to become the first Somali referee to officiate at a FIFA World Cup. He had travelled to the United States to join pre-tournament preparations with other officials before being stopped by Customs and Border Protection officers upon arrival in Miami.
According to U.S. officials, Artan was denied admission after additional screening allegedly uncovered information that made him ineligible to enter the country under American immigration law.
A Trump administration official stated that authorities identified “derogatory information,” including alleged associations with individuals suspected of involvement in terrorist organizations.
As a result, Artan was refused entry and processed for expedited removal under U.S. immigration regulations.
The decision comes amid broader travel restrictions affecting citizens from several countries, including Somalia, under immigration policies implemented by President Donald Trump’s administration.
The referee had reportedly received a U.S. visa only days earlier through the Somali Embassy in Kenya and was expected to participate in training sessions for World Cup officials based in Miami.
Following his deportation, Artan returned to Somalia, where he was welcomed by supporters and members of the football community.
Addressing the situation, he remained optimistic despite the disappointment.
“I promise you, God willing, that I will attend the next one,” he said after arriving home.
Artan also urged Somalis to remain proud of their country and identity despite the setback.
“It is up to all of us to defend the Somali name,” he said. “That flag belongs to us, and that passport belongs to us.”
The decision has generated discussion within football circles because Artan was widely considered one of Africa’s most accomplished referees and had earned international recognition through his performances in major continental competitions.
Neither FIFA nor Somali football authorities have publicly detailed whether a replacement official has already been appointed.
The incident highlights the continuing impact of immigration and security policies on international sporting events, even as the United States hosts one of the largest sporting tournaments in the world.
For Somalia, the development represents a missed historic opportunity, with Artan denied the chance to become the country’s first representative among World Cup match officials despite reaching the highest level of international refereeing.
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