Somalia’s First World Cup Referee Reportedly Denied Entry to the United States

Omar Artan, who made history as the first Somali referee selected to officiate at a FIFA World Cup, was reportedly denied entry into the United States, according to a Somali government official on Monday.

The exact reason for the decision at Miami International Airport remains unclear. However, Somalia was among the countries whose citizens faced travel restrictions under policies introduced during former U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration.

Issa Aden Abshir, an adviser to Somalia’s Ministry of Youth and Sports and a former captain of the Somali national football team, told AFP that Artan is widely regarded as one of Africa’s most respected referees.

“Omar Artan is one of Africa’s finest and most respected referees. The entire football community should stand behind him,” Abshir said.

According to Abshir, Artan possessed a valid U.S. visa at the time of travel. After being denied entry, he returned to Istanbul, where he had been staying prior to his trip.

Abshir described the incident as more than a personal setback for the referee, arguing that it also undermines the principles of integrity, merit, and fair play in football.

“Preventing him from entering the United States and officiating matches is not only a personal loss for him, but also damages the image of football’s commitment to integrity, merit, and fair play,” he added.

The FIFA World Cup is being held across Canada, Mexico, and the United States during June and July. Artan was among the 52 referees selected by FIFA to officiate matches at the tournament, marking a historic milestone for Somali football.