Award-winning Somali football referee Omar Artan has reportedly been denied entry to the United States despite being selected to officiate at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, according to officials from Somalia's sports ministry.
The reason for the decision remains unclear. Artan was turned away upon arrival at Miami International Airport and later returned to Istanbul, where he had been residing. Somali officials stated that he possessed a valid U.S. visa at the time of travel.
Ciise Aden Abshir, a senior adviser to Somalia's Ministry of Youth and Sports and a former national team captain, described Artan as one of Africa's most respected referees. He argued that preventing the official from entering the country and performing his World Cup duties raises concerns about fairness and merit in international football.
Artan was among the 52 referees selected by FIFA for the World Cup, which is being hosted jointly by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. His appointment was considered historic, as he became the first Somali referee chosen to officiate at the tournament.
Since obtaining FIFA referee status in 2018, Artan has worked in domestic Somali football and has also officiated at major continental competitions, including the Africa Cup of Nations. In 2025, he was named African Men's Referee of the Year by the Confederation of African Football.
Earlier this year, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud publicly praised Artan's achievements, describing him as a role model for young Somalis and commending his professionalism and integrity.
At the time of reporting, no official explanation had been provided regarding the decision to deny him entry into the United States.
