Somali Referee Excluded from World Cup Due to US Entry Denial

A Somali referee poised to make history as the first from his nation to officiate at a World Cup has been barred from entering the United States. FIFA has announced that Omar Artan, among the 52 referees selected for the upcoming tournament, will be removed from the officiating roster.

A spokesperson for FIFA stated, "FIFA can confirm that match official Omar Abdulkadir Artan will be unable to train and officiate at the FIFA World Cup 2026 after he was denied entry into the United States." They clarified that the organization does not interfere with the immigration policies of host countries and has been informed that Artan's visa situation remains unchanged.

The decision to deny entry follows a travel ban affecting citizens from several countries, including Somalia, which was enacted in June of the previous year. Artan, who has previously officiated at the Africa Cup of Nations, was reportedly denied entry upon arrival at Miami International Airport last weekend, despite having the appropriate travel documentation.

In a related matter, the Iranian national team, also facing travel restrictions, will be based in Mexico for the tournament. While all players have received the necessary visas to participate in their matches in Los Angeles and Seattle, it has been reported that 12 members of their support staff have not been granted entry into the United States.