Omar Abdulkadir Artan, a referee from Somalia, was denied entry into the United States on June 6, 2026, just days before the World Cup begins. Artan, who was recognized as Africa’s best referee in 2025, arrived at Miami International Airport from Istanbul with what he believed was a valid work visa. However, he was detained and sent back to his home country.
FIFA confirmed the denial of entry, stating that Artan would not be able to officiate at the FIFA World Cup 2026. A FIFA spokesperson noted that immigration decisions are made by the host government. A U.S. Customs and Border Protection spokesperson indicated that Artan was deemed inadmissible due to vetting concerns, but did not provide further details.
Somalia is one of the countries affected by a travel ban implemented by the Trump administration, which allows exemptions for World Cup athletes and staff but gives border officers discretion over entry. The decision has drawn criticism from various figures, including Ciise Aden Abshir, a senior adviser to Somalia’s Ministry of Youth and Sports, who emphasized Artan's reputation in the football community.
Edward Ahmed Mitchell, deputy director of the Council on American-Islamic Relations, stated that the U.S. should not deny entry based on race or ethnicity, calling the action an affront to American values. Despite the setback, Artan expressed gratitude for the support he received and wished his colleagues success during the World Cup.
The World Cup, co-hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, is set to begin on June 8, 2026.