FIFA removes Somali referee from World Cup after US entry denial

FIFA has confirmed that Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan will miss the 2026 World Cup after being denied entry to the United States. The world football governing body announced on Monday that Artan has been removed from the World Cup referee roster following the US entry denial.

According to US Customs and Border Protection, Artan was stopped at Miami International Airport on Saturday after arriving from Istanbul. The authorities confirmed that a Somali national who was planning to referee in the World Cup had been denied entry. Detailed reasons for this decision have not been made public.

For Artan, this development represents the end of a lifelong dream. The award-winning referee was set to become the first Somali official to referee at a FIFA World Cup finals. This historic milestone will now not be achieved. Somalia would have had its first representative in the referee staff of the world's most important football tournament.

The 2026 World Cup will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The tournament is scheduled to take place from June 11 to July 19, 2026, and will be the first time 48 teams participate. Most matches will be played in the United States, meaning international officials require valid US entry authorization.

The incident raises questions about visa and entry procedures for international sporting events. Referees and other officials typically need to obtain special work visas or entry permits to officiate at major sporting events. However, the exact circumstances of Artan's case remain unclear.

For FIFA, the loss means the need to find a replacement referee on short notice. The world governing body must ensure that all planned matches can be properly officiated. The selection and preparation of World Cup referees is a lengthy process that typically begins years in advance.

The case has also drawn attention beyond the sports world, as it highlights the challenges that international participants may face at major events. Immigration regulations and security screenings can affect even qualified professionals seeking to participate in legitimate international activities.

Somalia has made progress in developing its football in recent years, despite ongoing challenges in the country. Artan's qualification for the World Cup was an important milestone for Somali football and would have meant international recognition for the country.

FIFA has not yet announced who will replace Artan as a referee. The world governing body maintains a reserve of qualified referees who can step in when needed. The final referee list for the 2026 World Cup must now be adjusted accordingly to ensure all matches can be professionally officiated.

The incident occurs at a time when the 2026 World Cup is already generating significant attention as the first expanded tournament with 48 teams. The co-hosting arrangement between three North American countries presents logistical challenges, including ensuring smooth entry procedures for thousands of international participants.

Artan's case may prompt FIFA and host countries to review their coordination procedures for future tournaments to prevent similar situations. The world governing body typically works closely with host nations to facilitate entry for all tournament officials and participants.