Somalian referee returns home after being denied entry to US for World Cup

Somali football referee Omar Artan is returning home after being denied entry to the United States, preventing him from making his World Cup debut. Artan was expected to become the first Somali national to officiate a match in the prestigious tournament.

“

I feel very good now. I wanted to thank FIFA for supporting me all the way and the Somali people, also. So, I am very grateful for FIFA and CAF, also.

FIFA confirmed that Artan would not be able to officiate or train at the event after U.S. authorities denied him entry over the weekend. Speaking at Istanbul Airport before his flight to Somalia, Artan expressed gratitude for the support he received. "I feel very good now," Artan said. "I wanted to thank FIFA for supporting me all the way and the Somali people, also. So, I am very grateful for FIFA and CAF, also."

Somalia's government stated it had attempted to negotiate with both the U.S. and FIFA to allow Artan entry, emphasizing his international achievements as a source of pride. However, the Somali Football Federation has not received an official explanation for the entry denial and is working with FIFA and relevant authorities to understand the circumstances.

“

His international achievements are a source of honour and pride for the Somali people.

A FIFA spokesperson clarified that the organization is not involved in host country immigration processes, including visa adjudications. Authorities informed FIFA that Mr. Artan's status would not change at present. This decision also means Artan cannot officiate games in Mexico and Canada, as referees participating in the event are required to stay at a training hub in Miami for logistical and security reasons. U.S. Customs and Border Protection confirmed that a Somali national arriving from Istanbul was deemed inadmissible due to vetting concerns, without naming the individual.

“

FIFA is not involved in host country immigration processes, including visa adjudications, and has been informed by authorities that Mr Artan's status will not be changed at present.