Omar Artan U.S. entry denial triggers World Cup outrage
The United States’ immigration policies have come under fresh scrutiny after Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan was denied entry to the country, a decision that has sparked outrage across the football community ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The incident has added another layer of controversy to growing concerns over visa access and travel restrictions as the United States prepares to co-host the world’s biggest sporting event alongside Canada and Mexico.
Read Also: World Cup 2026: Somali referee dropped after U.S. visa denial
FIFA Confirms Artan’s Withdrawal
World football governing body FIFA confirmed on Monday that Artan, one of the 52 referees selected for the tournament, will no longer participate in the World Cup after U.S. authorities refused him entry upon arrival at Miami International Airport.
“FIFA can confirm that match official Omar Abdulkadir Artan will be unable to train
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