Somali Referee Denied Entry to U.S. for FIFA World Cup Due to Vetting Concerns

A Somali referee selected for the FIFA World Cup has been denied entry to the United States. Omar Artan, one of 52 referees chosen for the tournament, faced rejection due to ‘vetting concerns,’ according to U.S. border officials.

Omar Artan was set to officiate at the FIFA World Cup, which starts this Thursday in North America. He is one of only seven referees from Africa selected and received the Confederation for African Football’s Referee of the Year award in 2025.

Artan arrived at Miami International Airport on Saturday, five days before the tournament. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) blocked his entry due to extra inspection protocols. CBP stated, ‘The traveler underwent additional inspection, a routine part of CBP’s inspection process to verify information or determine admissibility. Following inspection, the traveler was determined to be inadmissible due to vetting concerns.’

FIFA, confirming the situation, noted Artan won’t officiate at the World Cup due to U.S. immigration processes, on which they don’t have input.

The visa process appears influenced by international politics. Recently, Iran’s soccer team members received U.S. visas after much uncertainty related to the U.S.-Iran conflict, though some support staff were denied entry.

The Trump administration has imposed travel and visa restrictions on Somalia. President Trump had made derogatory comments about Somali immigrants and Somalia itself. Despite this, the Pentagon has cooperated with Somalia to conduct airstrikes on militant targets.

Somalia is a federal republic striving for stability, yet battling an insurgency led by Al Shabaab. Artan is celebrated in Somalia for his athletic achievements amid national adversity. His rejection was felt deeply by many Somalis.

“When I received the news, I nearly collapsed because I had high hopes in him,” Ibrahim Abukar Ahmed, a Mogadishu resident, expressed. “Today is a sad day not only for Artan, but for millions of Somalis.”