Somali referee Omar Artan was denied entry to the United States after an 11-hour interrogation at Miami International Airport. His diplomatic passport and single-entry US visa were reportedly not recognized as valid.
US officials reportedly questioned Artan on suspicion of possible links to terrorist organization members. Artan denied any connection to the Somali-based militant group Al-Shabaab and insisted he had the required documents.
After the interrogation, Artan was reportedly put on a plane and sent back to Somalia. FIFA was said to have intervened to provide support, undertaking to pay the referee's fee.
Artan described himself as simply a referee who dreams of participating in the World Cup. He said this goal is the biggest dream of his life.
The 34-year-old referee stands out as a respected figure in African football despite this setback. It was noted that Artan was named the 2025 CAF Men's Referee of the Year.
Artan was also recently appointed to officiate the UEFA Super Cup match between Paris Saint-Germain and Aston Villa, to be played in Salzburg. He also refereed the second leg of the CAF Champions League final between Pyramids FC and Mamelodi Sundowns.
After returning to Somalia, Artan thanked 'my people and my country' and said he wants to take part in the 2030 World Cup.