Somali Referee Omar Artan Denied Entry for World Cup

FIFA has announced that Somali referee Omar Artan will not be officiating at the 2026 World Cup due to immigration issues. The governing body of world football explained that Artan is unable to train or officiate because U.S. authorities denied him entry.

FIFA clarified that it does not influence the immigration process of host countries, including visa adjudication. Artan's status will not change as the host government ultimately determines visa admissions.

He was previously on FIFA's referee list in 2018 and was denied entry to the U.S. despite holding a valid visa. Artan has received recognition as one of Africa's top referees, notably being awarded by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) for his officiating in recent years.