Somali World Cup Referee Denied Entry to U.S

Omar Artan, a top Somali referee who was set to become the first from his country to officiate at a World Cup, was denied entry to the United States after arriving in Miami, leading FIFA to cut him from the tournament.

Artan, named Africa's best male referee in 2025, was issued a visa last week but was denied entry at Miami International Airport due to 'vetting concerns' according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection. The denial came despite FIFA's selection of Artan for the World Cup.

The Somali government is making diplomatic efforts to resolve the issue. Artan's denial comes amid broader U.S. travel restrictions affecting several African countries.

FIFA said it was not involved in the immigration process and noted that a host government ultimately determines who receives a visa.