Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan has been denied entry to the United States, preventing him from taking part in the FIFA World Cup 2026 and ending what would have been a historic moment for Somali football.
Artan had been expected to become the first Somali referee to officiate at a World Cup match. However, FIFA confirmed on Monday (8 June) that he will not be able to train or officiate at the tournament, which begins on Thursday.
"FIFA is not involved in host country immigration processes, including visa adjudications, and has been informed by authorities that Mr Artan's status will not be changed at present," a FIFA spokesperson said.
The decision has come as a major disappointment for Artan, one of Africa's most highly regarded match officials. He was named the Confederation of African Football's Best Male Referee for 2025 and had been preparing for what many saw as a landmark achievement for Somalia.
Despite the setback, Artan struck a positive tone in a statement.
"I would like to thank FIFA and CAF for all their support and I promise to keep my refereeing levels up as I concentrate on the future," he said.
"I want to thank the football family for their messages and wish my colleagues all the best success during the World Cup and I look forward to joining them again in future competitions."
U.S. Customs and Border Protection said a Somali national arrived at Miami International Airport from Istanbul on Saturday and was later denied entry after additional screening.
The agency did not identify the individual by name, but said the traveller was found to be inadmissible because of vetting concerns.
"Admissibility determinations are made on a case-by-case basis using law enforcement, national security, and immigration information available at the time of inspection," the agency said.
Officials did not provide further details about the concerns that led to the decision.
According to media reports, Artan held a valid U.S. visa at the time of travel.
The case is likely to renew debate over U.S. immigration policies ahead of the World Cup.
The Trump administration last year imposed a broad travel ban affecting citizens of 12 countries, including Somalia. Human rights groups and football officials have raised concerns that such restrictions could affect athletes, officials and supporters travelling to major international sporting events.
Somalia's embassy in Washington did not immediately comment on the case.
For Artan, the decision means missing out on a career-defining opportunity. Yet his message focused on resilience, thanking supporters and looking ahead to future tournaments despite the disappointment.
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