Somalia has defended its referee Omar Artan after he was denied entry to the United States, preventing him from becoming the first Somali official to officiate at the 2026 World Cup.
“The Ministry of Youth and Sports of the Federal Government of Somalia deeply regrets the circumstances that led to the exclusion of Somali international referee Omar Artan from the international football tournament currently taking place in the United States, Canada and Mexico,” the Somali ministry said in a press release.
Artan was the only referee from Somalia on FIFA’s list of match officials for the World Cup. As of June 9, 2025, Somalia has been on the U.S. list of countries with complete travel restrictions, although exceptions may be granted on a case-by-case basis.
According to reports, Artan possessed both a valid visa and a diplomatic passport. However, US authorities deemed them insufficient for access.
“The Ministry of Youth and Sports reaffirms its full support for Judge Omar Artan and will continue to support his professional development and participation in future international opportunities.”
Published on June 9, 2026
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