The FIFA-listed official was reportedly turned back at Miami International Airport despite holding a valid visa.
Award-winning Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan has reportedly been denied entry into the United States ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite being selected among officials scheduled to officiate at the tournament.
According to reports, Artan arrived at Miami International Airport before being refused entry by US authorities. The reason for the decision was not immediately disclosed. Somalia is among countries affected by travel restrictions introduced under former US President Donald Trump’s administration.
The development comes just days before the start of the World Cup tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. FIFA had earlier named Artan among the 52 referees selected to officiate at the competition. His appointment marked a historic moment, as he was set to become the first Somali referee to officiate at a FIFA World Cup finals.
Officials familiar with the matter said Artan held a valid US visa and had travelled from Istanbul for a FIFA seminar involving match officials before the competition begins. Reports indicated that he has since returned to Istanbul following the incident.
A senior adviser to Somalia’s Ministry of Youth and Sports, Ciise Aden Abshir, described the situation as damaging to the principles of fairness and merit within football. He said Artan deserved the support of the football community given his standing within African football.
Artan became a FIFA-listed referee in 2018 and has officiated at major African football competitions, including the Africa Cup of Nations and CAF competitions. In 2025, he was named Africa’s men’s referee of the year by the Confederation of African Football.
The incident has added another layer to ongoing discussions surrounding travel restrictions and participation logistics ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. FIFA is yet to publicly clarify the referee’s status for the tournament.