Somali Referee Omar Artan Denied US Entry for World Cup

Somali referee Omar Artan was denied entry to the United States at Miami International Airport while attempting to travel for the World Cup. The reason for his denial was not immediately clear, but it is noted that Somalia is on several countries' travel ban lists introduced during Donald Trump's administration.

Artan, who holds a valid visa, was flown back to Istanbul after being barred from entering the U.S. Aden Abshir, a senior advisor to Somalia's Minister of Youth and Sports, emphasized that this denial undermines football's commitment to fair play.

Artan is recognized as one of Africa's respected referees, having officiated at significant events, including the 2023 African Cup of Nations final and being named the Confederation of African Football's Men's Referee of the Year for 2025. Somalia's President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud praised Artan for making history as the first Somali referee selected to officiate a World Cup final, calling him an inspiration for a new generation of Somali referees.