FIFA to pay Somali referee barred from World Cup in full
New York Times
Last updated: June 15, 2026
Somali referee Omar Artan was denied entry to the United States for the World Cup due to alleged terror organization associations, preventing his participation despite FIFA selection. He will still receive his full tournament fee from FIFA.
- Omar Artan, a 34-year-old Somali referee, was barred from entering the United States at Miami International Airport.
- The U.S. administration cited "association with suspected members of terror organizations" as the reason for his denial.
- Despite not officiating, Artan will be paid his World Cup fee in full by FIFA upon the tournament's conclusion, mirroring payments to other officials.
- Artan stated he possessed the correct documentation and visa, along with FIFA accreditation, for his intended travel.
- After an extensive interview and detention at Miami Airport, he was returned to Istanbul and subsequently to Somalia, where he received a public welcome.
- Artan, recognized as the 2025 Confederation of African Football men’s referee of the year, was set to be the first Somali to officiate at a World Cup.
- UEFA has appointed Artan to officiate the Super Cup fixture between Paris Saint-Germain and Aston Villa on August 12, with UEFA president Aleksander Čeferin expressing respect for his skills.
- FIFA president Gianni Infantino described the situation as "unfortunate" and noted FIFA's limitations in overriding governmental decisions.
