As the World Cup kicks off, the reason for denying entry to Somali referee Omar Artan has been revealed: suspected ties to members of a terrorist organization.
ESPN reported this on Thursday, citing an anonymous source familiar with the matter.
Artan, a FIFA referee since 2018, is internationally acclaimed, having been named Africa’s Best Referee for 2025.
Despite holding a valid visa, he was denied entry and deported upon arrival in Miami for the North and Central America World Cup.
Andrew Giuliani, Executive Secretary of the White House FIFA Task Force, stated there were compelling reasons for Artan’s entry denial but declined to elaborate. U.S. authorities issued a statement citing identity verification concerns as the basis for the decision.
In a New York Times interview, Artan disclosed he endured 11 hours of interrogation by border officials at Miami Airport.
Officials reportedly questioned him about his purpose in the U.S., Somalia’s political climate, and insurgent groups opposing the Somali government. Artan presented FIFA credentials and photos documenting his refereeing career in response.
Despite his efforts, Artan was detained post-questioning and forced to return to Istanbul.
ESPN highlighted the rarity of a FIFA-appointed referee being barred from entering a World Cup host nation.
Somalia is among roughly 40 countries targeted by new travel restrictions under the Donald Trump administration’s tightened immigration policies. This has sparked concerns that fans, players, and officials from many African nations might be denied World Cup participation, even with valid visas.
Somali officials stated that their embassy in Washington is working to resolve the issue, aiming to secure Artan’s participation in the North and Central America World Cup.
Upon returning to Mogadishu, Somalia’s capital, Artan received a hero’s welcome. He expressed his determination to officiate in the next World Cup and urged Somali youth to take pride in their nation.