World Cup 2026: FIFA drops Somali referee Omar Artan after US blocks entry

Omar Artan gestures during the AFCON Group F match between Gabon and Ivory Coast at Marrakech stadium, Marrakech, Morocco on December 31, 2025. (Photo by Ulrik Pedersen/NurPhoto)

FIFA has confirmed that Somali referee, Omar Artan, will miss the 2026 World Cup after being denied entry into the United States.

According to a statement reported by BBC Sport on Monday, world football’s governing body said Artan will be unable to train or officiate at the tournament following the decision by US authorities.

The statement read, “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.

“FIFA is not involved in host country immigration processes, including visa adjudications, and has been informed by authorities that Mr Artan’s status will not be changed at present. Related News Somali referee denied entry to US for World Cup Lassana Diarra settles 65mn euros transfer case with FIFA, Belgian FA How One Bet Could Win You a Luxury Duplex on iLOTBET

Omar Artan gestures during the AFCON Group F match between Gabon and Ivory Coast at Marrakech stadium, Marrakech, Morocco on December 31, 2025. (Photo by Ulrik Pedersen/NurPhoto)

FIFA has confirmed that Somali referee, Omar Artan, will miss the 2026 World Cup after being denied entry into the United States.

According to a statement reported by BBC Sport on Monday, world football’s governing body said Artan will be unable to train or officiate at the tournament following the decision by US authorities.

The statement read, “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.