Somalia FA laments USA’s decision to deny referee Artan a chance at World Cup
By Luke Oluoch, June 10, 2026Somalia’s Football Federation had decried the decision by the United States authorities to deny entry to award-winning referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan.
The SSF, in a statement on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, said the US had deprived the country’s official of a historic World Cup debut, moments before the referee arrived in the country to a heroic welcome.
Despite holding a valid visa, the African official was denied entry into the US as authorities cited an undisclosed immigration issue.
Sent back
In a shocking twist of events, he was later turned away at the border, sending him back to Turkey, his transit country.
FIFA later removed him from the list of the 2026 World Cup officiating panel.
FIFA said that Artan was unable to travel to the United States over the weekend and, as a result, will not take part in officiating duties or tournament preparations ahead of the World Cup, which begins on Thursday, June 11, 2026.
Condemnation
The global football body conceded that they ‘are not involved in host country immigration processes, including visa adjudications, and have been informed by authorities that Artan’s status will not be changed at present.
The controversy attracted ire and condemnation of many football fans and legends, with Artan’s country the latest to lambast the decision.
Deserves his place
Somalia FF President Ali Abdi Mohamed said, “He, Artan, has the right to officiate at the highest stage and deserved that chance for sure.” The statement came after Somalia’s sports ministry prided in his achievement, describing it as “a source of honour and pride for the Somali people.”
The official, a cult hero back in Somalia, conveyed his gratitude to CAF and FIFA for the support during the ordeal after he landed in Turkey on his way back to Somalia.
I would like to thank FIFA, CAF, and the people of Somalia for supporting me all the way,” he said in an interview with Al Jazeera. “I promise to keep my refereeing levels up as I concentrate on the future,” he added.
The incident, while it renewed attention on U.S. immigration policies ahead of the World Cup, also adds to the troubles and incidences that have marred the tournament’s start across North America.
Already the three countries have been grappling with cases of stabbings and shootings in the USA city of Kansas City.
There have also been incidents of unrest in the City of Mexico, where the opening clash featuring the host nation against South Africa will kick off the tournament.