By Teddy Nwanunobi
One of the 52 referees selected by FIFA for the 2026 World Cup in North America, Somalia’s Omar Artan, has been denied entry into the United States ahead of the June 11 kick off.
As reported by The Athletic, the incident occurred on Saturday when Artan landed at the Miami International Airport from Istanbul, but was prevented from entering the United States by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), following routine checks.
Reports noted that the 34-year-old, who is highly rated as one of the best referees in Africa, had travelled on a diplomatic passport issued by the Somalia Embassy in Nairobi, Kenya to resolve potential travel related issues, but it did not help his situation.
A spokesperson for CBP later confirmed the incident to The Athletic, noting that the traveller, who was not specifically named, underwent additional screening upon his arrival. He was still deemed inadmissible despite formal invitation by FIFA.
“On June 6, a Somali national arrived at Miami International Airport from Istanbul International Airport. During processing, the traveller underwent additional inspection, a routine part of CBP’s inspection process when officers need to verify information or determine admissibility.
“Following inspection, the traveller, a referee for the FIFA World Cup, was determined to be inadmissible due to vetting concerns and was denied entry. All travellers seeking entry into the United States, including athletes, coaches, and staff, are subject to CBP inspection and vetting.
“Admissibility determinations are made on a case-by-case basis using law enforcement, national security, and immigration information available at the time of inspection.
“CBP officers have the authority to question travellers, conduct inspections, and determine admissibility consistent with U.S. law,” he said.
The CBP did not mention any specific reason why Mr Artan was denied entry but it might be connected to President Donald Trump’s travel ban imposed on 39 countries, including Somalia.
Under the policy, Somali passport holders are permanently banned from entering into the United States.