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.
