US Blocks Somali Referee Omar Artan from Entering Country Ahead of 2026 FIFA World Cup

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Somali referee Omar Artan has been denied entry into the United States just days before the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite being among the 52 match officials selected by FIFA for the tournament.

According to reports by The Athletic, Artan arrived at Miami International Airport from Istanbul on Saturday but was stopped by officers of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) during routine immigration checks.

The 34-year-old referee, regarded as one of Africa’s top football officials, reportedly travelled using a diplomatic passport issued by the Somalia Embassy in Nairobi, Kenya, in an effort to avoid possible travel-related complications. However, the document did not secure his admission into the country.

Confirming the development, a CBP spokesperson told The Athletic that the traveller underwent additional inspection upon arrival and was subsequently found inadmissible under U.S. immigration procedures.

“On June 6, a Somali national arrived at Miami International Airport from Istanbul International Airport. During processing, the traveler underwent additional inspection, a routine part of CBP’s inspection process when officers need to verify information or determine admissibility,” the spokesperson said.

The agency added that although the traveller was a FIFA World Cup referee, he was denied entry due to unspecified vetting concerns.

“Following inspection, the traveler, a referee for the FIFA World Cup, was determined to be inadmissible due to vetting concerns and was denied entry. All travelers seeking entry into the United States, including athletes, coaches, and staff, are subject to CBP inspection and vetting,” the statement read.

CBP did not disclose the specific reasons behind the decision. However, reports suggest the development may be linked to immigration restrictions affecting Somali nationals under policies introduced by U.S. President Donald Trump.

Artan’s exclusion comes as preparations intensify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico. His absence could raise concerns over the participation of officials from countries affected by U.S. immigration restrictions.