Somali World Cup Referee Omar Artan Denied Entry Into United States

GOOBJOOG NEWS|U.S.: Somali international referee Omar Artan, who had been selected to officiate at the upcoming FIFA World Cup, has reportedly been refused entry into the United States, preventing him from taking part in the tournament preparations.
Artan, who made history by becoming the first Somali referee chosen for a FIFA World Cup finals, was stopped upon arrival at Miami International Airport and later returned to Turkey.
US immigration authorities have not publicly disclosed the reasons behind the decision. However, the development comes amid travel restrictions affecting several countries, including Somalia, under policies introduced by President Donald Trump’s administration.
The highly regarded official was named among 52 referees selected by FIFA to oversee matches at the 2026 World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico from June 12 to July 19.
Artan has built a strong reputation in African football. He was named the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Men’s Referee of the Year in 2025 and has officiated at major continental competitions, including the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
A FIFA-accredited referee since 2018, Artan also serves as an official in Somalia’s domestic football competitions and is regarded as one of the continent’s leading match officials.