Award-winning Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan has been ruled out of officiating at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after being denied entry into the United States, FIFA confirmed on Monday.
Artan, who was set to become the first Somali referee to officiate at a World Cup, was reportedly stopped from entering the US after arriving at Miami International Airport on Saturday.
In a statement, FIFA said the official would no longer be able to participate in training or officiate matches during the tournament due to the immigration decision.
The global football governing body stressed that it had no authority over visa approvals or immigration matters, explaining that such decisions rest entirely with the host nation.
According to FIFA, US authorities informed the organisation that Artan’s immigration status would not be altered at this time, making him ineligible to take part in the competition.
A spokesperson for the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) said Artan underwent a routine secondary inspection upon arrival. Following the review, officials determined that he was inadmissible because of unspecified vetting concerns and subsequently refused him entry.
The incident comes amid stricter immigration measures introduced under the administration of US President Donald Trump, with Somalia among the countries affected by a travel restriction policy.
Despite the setback, Artan expressed optimism about the future, saying he remains focused on advancing his refereeing career and grateful for the support he has received from the football community. He also wished fellow match officials success at the World Cup and expressed hope of participating in future international competitions.
A senior adviser to Somalia’s Ministry of Youth and Sports and former national team captain, Ciise Aden Abshir, described Artan as one of Africa’s most respected referees and argued that the football community should rally behind him.
Abshir revealed that Artan returned to Istanbul after being denied entry and said the decision not only affected the referee personally but also raised concerns about fairness and merit in international football.
Artan was among the 52 referees selected by FIFA for the World Cup finals, which are being hosted jointly by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Since becoming a FIFA-accredited referee in 2018, he has officiated in Somalia’s domestic league and handled matches at major continental competitions, including the most recent edition of the Africa Cup of Nations.
His achievements earned him recognition as the Confederation of African Football’s Men’s Referee of the Year in 2025.
Earlier this year, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud praised Artan for making history as the first Somali selected to officiate at a FIFA World Cup, describing him as a source of inspiration for young Somalis and a symbol of professionalism and dedication.