World Cup 2026: Somali referee dropped after U.S. visa denial
Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan has been barred from officiating at the FIFA 2026 World Cup after being denied entry into the United States, dealing a major blow to one of Africa’s most respected match officials.
FIFA confirmed on Monday that Artan, who was selected among the 52 referees for the tournament, will no longer take part in the World Cup after U.S. authorities refused him entry upon arrival at Miami International Airport on Saturday.
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FIFA Confirms Referee’s Withdrawal
“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,” a FIFA spokesperson said.
FIFA stressed that it had no influence over immigration decisions made by host nations.
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