Somalia has stood by its referee, Omar Artan, after he was refused entry to the United States, blocking him from becoming the first Somali official to officiate at a World Cup finals.
In a statement on
Tuesday, Somalia’s Ministry of Sports voiced its “deep regret” over the decision, noting that despite diplomatic efforts with US authorities and world football’s governing body FIFA, it had “not been possible to achieve a positive outcome”.
Artan, a decorated referee, was turned back on Saturday after arriving at Miami International Airport.
A spokesperson for US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) said he was denied entry following a routine inspection.
He was one of the 52 referees named by FIFA for the World Cup finals in Canada, Mexico and the United States.
Somalia reiterated its “unwavering support” for Artan, adding that it has “full confidence in his integrity, professionalism, and continued contribution to the advancement of football both in Somalia and internationally”.
“Artan represents the very best of Somali talent,” the statement said.
FIFA confirmed to AFP that Artan will not take part in the World Cup, which is due to kick off on Thursday.
“FIFA can confirm that match official Omar Abdulkadir Artan will be unable to train and officiate at the FIFA World Cup 2026 after he was denied entry into the United States,” a FIFA spokesperson said.
A source at the Confederation of African Football (CAF) told AFP on Tuesday that the continental body could not step in, but added: “We certainly feel sorry for Artan.”
Somalia is among several countries on a travel ban list introduced by President Donald Trump’s administration as part of a wider immigration crackdown.
(With AFP Inputs)
