FIFA Responds to U.S. Denial of Somali Referee for 2026 World Cup Qualifiers

FIFA has confirmed that Omar Abdulkadir Artan, the top‑ranked African referee, will not officiate at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after U.S. authorities denied him entry.

Artan, who was named Confederation of African Football (CAF) Referee of the Year, was slated to become the first Somali referee to take charge at a FIFA World Cup.

His opportunity ended abruptly when he was reportedly turned back at Miami International Airport and forced to return home.

In a statement, FIFA said the match official would be unable to participate in the tournament after the U.S. denied him entry.

“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,” the governing body was quoted on The South African.

FIFA added that it had been informed by authorities that Artan’s immigration status would not be changed and stressed that visa decisions ultimately rest with host governments.

The decision has caused disappointment across African football circles, with many noting the significance of Artan’s appointment.

His selection for the World Cup officiating team had been seen as a landmark moment for Somali football and a source of pride for the East African nation.

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Artan has built a strong reputation on the continent in recent years, officiating major CAF competitions and international fixtures.

His recognition as CAF Referee of the Year cemented his status as one of Africa’s leading match officials.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup, hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, was expected to mark a historic milestone in his career.

Instead, the Somali referee will watch from afar after being denied the opportunity to take part in football’s biggest tournament.

FIFA has not indicated whether Artan will be replaced by another African referee.