What to know about the World Cup referee from Somalia who was denied entry to the US
Omar Artan, a 34-year-old Somali referee named Africa’s best male referee in 2025, was denied entry to the U.S. despite being selected for the World Cup roster, marking an unprecedented move by a host nation. U.S. Customs and Border Protection cited vetting concerns tied to suspected terrorist associations, though Somali officials suspect broader immigration restrictions targeting Somalia played a role.
Omar Artan, a 34-year-old Somali referee, was set to become the first from his country to officiate at the World Cup after earning a spot on FIFA’s final list. His selection followed years of experience, including officiating the African Cup of Nations in January 2024 and the African Champions League final in Morocco earlier this year. Artan was also named Africa’s best male referee in 2025, a milestone celebrated across Somalia. The U.S. denied Artan entry to join referees at their training base in Miami, citing vetting concerns and an association with suspected members of terror organizations. A U.S. official confirmed the refusal, though Somali authorities suspect broader immigration policies targeting Somalia influenced the decision. Somalia, a nation of about 19 million recovering from decades of civil war, saw Artan’s exclusion as a setback to its growing soccer culture. FIFA stated it had no role in visa decisions, emphasizing that host countries determine entry. The refusal is unprecedented in modern soccer history, drawing criticism from fans and raising questions about the U.S.’s ability to host the tournament. Social media reactions highlighted similar visa issues affecting visiting teams and officials. Artan returned to Mogadishu on Wednesday, where he was greeted as a hero despite the setback. He urged young Somalis to remain proud amid challenges, reflecting the resilience of soccer in a country still rebuilding after conflict. His career progression—from FIFA’s international list in 2018 to World Cup consideration—underscored Somalia’s recent strides in sports development. The incident has sparked broader debates about immigration policies and their impact on global events. While FIFA maintains neutrality in visa matters, the controversy underscores the complexities of hosting international competitions. Artan’s story also highlights the growing influence of Somali soccer, despite ongoing political and economic hurdles.
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