Omar Artan looks on 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) (Photo by Ulrik Pedersen / NurPhoto / NurPhoto via AFP)
A U.S. official said the denial of entry for Somali referee Omar Artan was based on security concerns uncovered during border inspection.
According to BBC Sport on Wednesday, in a statement, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection identified what it described as “derogatory information,” including alleged links or associations with suspected members of terrorist organisations, which made him ineligible for entry under the Immigration and Nationality Act.
The official also referenced a broader security policy under the administration of Donald Trump, saying the U.S. would not admit individuals considered potential security risks.
The 34-year-old, Africa’s referee of the year in 2025, was set to be the first Somali referee at a World Cup finals, but was denied entry at Miami International Airport on Monday despite holding a diplomatic passport and a single entry US visa. Related News Panic in Niger schools over rumour of bandit attack Iran will pay for taking too long to negotiate – Trump I’ll be at next World Cup in 2030 – Somali referee from US
