FIFA-selected Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan has been denied entry into the United States after being stopped at Miami International Airport.
The decision led to his immediate removal from officiating duties at the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, which is set to begin on June 12.
Authorities confirmed that he was sent back after being denied entry at the port of arrival.
Immigration Decision Ends World Cup Appointment
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials reportedly stopped Artan upon arrival and placed him on a return flight to Türkiye.
As a result, he will not participate in the tournament in any officiating capacity.
Officials stated that admissibility decisions are made individually, based on security and immigration-related assessments.
The incident has drawn attention due to the referee’s high-profile appointment by FIFA.
First Somali Referee in World Cup History
Omar Abdulkadir Artan had made history as the first Somali referee selected to officiate at a FIFA World Cup finals tournament.
He had also been recognized as the 2025 Men’s Referee of the Year by the Confederation of African Football, highlighting his rising international profile.
The Somali embassy reportedly issued him a diplomatic passport ahead of his travel for the tournament.
Despite this, his entry into the United States was not permitted, ending his World Cup participation.
FIFA Confirms His Removal from Tournament Duties
FIFA has officially confirmed that Artan will no longer be part of the refereeing team for the 2026 World Cup.
The governing body has not announced a replacement at the time of reporting.
The development comes just days before the expanded World Cup begins across the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
World Cup 2026 Set for Historic Expansion
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the first edition to feature 48 national teams.
A total of 104 matches will be played across three host nations: the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
Teams have been divided into 12 groups of four, making it the largest tournament format in FIFA history.
Growing Scrutiny Ahead of Tournament Kickoff
The incident has added unexpected attention to tournament preparations, especially around visa processing and entry approvals for officials.
With the World Cup approaching, all participating staff and referees are undergoing strict verification procedures.
The situation involving Omar Artan now raises broader questions about coordination between immigration authorities and international sporting bodies ahead of major global events.
