Somali referee Omar Artan to be paid for World Cup after USA denied entry
USA Today
Last updated: June 15, 2026
Somali referee Omar Artan, initially selected as a World Cup official, was denied entry into the United States for the 2026 FIFA World Cup due to "vetting concerns" related to alleged associations with suspected terror organizations. Despite this, he will receive full payment for his role in the tournament.
- Somali referee Omar Artan was appointed as a match official for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to be the first Somali to officiate at the event.
- On June 6, Artan was denied entry into the United States at Miami airport, despite claiming to have correct documentation.
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection cited "vetting concerns" for the denial, with later reports indicating associations with suspected terror organizations as the reason.
- FIFA stated it could not intervene as the host government has ultimate authority over visa issuance and entry.
- A source confirmed Artan will be paid in full for the World Cup, offering a financial acknowledgment of his selection.
- Artan has a notable officiating career, having previously refereed the 2024–25 CAF Champions League final and being named African Football's men's referee of the year in 2025.
- Somalia is subject to a travel ban, but an exception was made for tournament participants, which should have included referees.
