Somali referee Artan barred from entering US
4 hours ago
- #Immigration Policy
- #Sports Diplomacy
- #FIFA World Cup
- Somali referee Omar Artan, the 2025 CAF Referee of the Year, was denied entry to the U.S. at Miami airport, preventing him from officiating at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
- U.S. immigration authorities did not provide a reason, but Somalia is on a U.S. travel ban list from the Trump era. Artan held valid documents and a diplomatic passport.
- FIFA stated it is not involved in host country immigration processes and confirmed Artan cannot participate in the tournament, as all officials must train in the U.S.
- Artan expressed gratitude to FIFA and CAF for support, remains positive, and aims to focus on future competitions despite missing the World Cup.
- Somali Football Federation sought clarification from FIFA, while a White House task force leader supported the decision without detailing derogatory information.