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Somalia Defends World Cup Referee Denied U.S. Entry

From The Punch · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Context piece
  • Somalia defended its World Cup-bound referee Omar Artan after he was denied entry to the United States.
  • Artan, named CAF's men's referee of the year, was barred from entering the U.S. on Saturday, preventing him from officiating at the World Cup finals.
  • Somalia's Ministry of Sports expressed regret, citing diplomatic engagement that failed to secure a positive outcome, and reaffirmed support for the referee's integrity.

Somalia has voiced strong support for its acclaimed referee, Omar Artan, who was denied entry into the United States, preventing him from officiating at the upcoming World Cup finals. The Ministry of Sports expressed deep regret over the decision, stating that diplomatic efforts with U.S. authorities and FIFA did not yield a positive result.

We certainly feel sorry for Artan.

— CAF sourceThe continental body could not intervene in the decision by the US.

Artan, recognized as the Confederation of African Football's (CAF) men's referee of the year in 2025, arrived at Miami International Airport on Saturday but was subsequently barred from entering the U.S. FIFA confirmed his removal from the officiating roster for the tournament, which is set to begin Thursday in Canada, Mexico, and the United States. His appointment had been a significant source of national pride, with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud calling him a symbol of inspiration.

Artan represents the very best of Somali talent.

— Ministry of Sports statementSomalia reaffirmed its unwavering support for the referee.

A spokesperson for U.S. Customs and Border Protection stated that Artan was denied entry following a routine inspection, noting Somalia's inclusion on a travel ban list. A CAF source indicated the continental body could not overrule the U.S. decision but expressed sympathy for Artan. Somalia, however, reaffirmed its unwavering support, emphasizing confidence in his integrity and professionalism.

the biggest dream of my life had been ripped away.

— Omar ArtanArtan said in an interview with the New York Times that he was very disappointed.

Artan described the situation as the "biggest dream of my life" being ripped away. He reported being subjected to an 11-hour interview and subsequent detention before being placed on a flight back to Turkey. He asserted he possessed the correct visa and papers, a claim supported by a Somali government advisor. The rejection has caused widespread outrage in Somalia, with former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire assuring Artan that "Africa and the world stand with you."

I had the right papers and everything. I had the right visa.

— Omar ArtanArtan explained his experience after being turned back in Miami.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by The Punch in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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