Somali referee Omar Artan has described being denied entry to the United States and missing the 2026 FIFA World Cup as a “very tough period” ahead of his historic appointment to officiate the UEFA Super Cup between Paris Saint-Germain and Aston Villa on Wednesday.
The 34-year-old was among the referees selected by FIFA for the World Cup, but was turned away at Miami International Airport shortly before the tournament began after being refused entry into the United States.
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Artan opens up on World Cup disappointment
Reflecting on the experience, Artan said the disappointment was difficult to overcome after years of preparation for the tournament.
