Africa's Best Referee Denied Entry to US

Somali referee Omar Artan, Africa's best, denied entry to US despite World Cup selection. Traveling on diplomatic passport, he was deported from Miami.

ByAlexander Gonzalez- Senior Editor

Today / 20:02|Last updated: Today / 20:04

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Africa's Best Referee Denied Entry to US — Photo: Prepared by Bond.az

Somali referee Omar Artan, selected among 52 officials for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, was denied entry to the United States without explanation. After arriving at Miami International Airport, he was sent back to Istanbul.

Despite traveling on a diplomatic passport, Artan was refused admission by US border officials. This incident highlights the visa restrictions faced by Somali citizens.

Artan was named Africa's best referee by the Confederation of African Football in 2025, becoming the first Somali to be appointed to a World Cup final stage.

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