Gianni Infantino says Omar Abdulkadir Artan situation is unfortunate, FIFA cannot control everything | OneFootball

Gianni Infantino has described the treatment of Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan, who was refused entry to the United States, as unfortunate, while stressing FIFA do not control everything.

Speaking at a news conference in Mexico on Wednesday, the eve of a World Cup running from 11 June to 19 July, he distanced FIFA from responsibility. According to The Athletic, the Trump administration said the decision was based on alleged links between Artan and suspected members of terrorist organisations, without specifying the nature of those links or the organisation.

Infantino said the governing body try to discuss issues and look for solutions, adding that rushing to shout only has the opposite effect. He noted FIFA are a sports organisation and cannot dictate to governments or police.

Artan, named the best referee by the Confederation of African Football in 2025, had been due to officiate at the tournament.

He was turned back by border police on Saturday at Miami International Airport after 11 hours of questioning.

Source: L'Équipe