Somalia’s sports ministry laments United States refusal of Omar Abdulkadir Artan at border | OneFootball

Somalia’s Ministry of Youth and Sports said it deeply regretted the United States border refusal of referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan, who had been due to become the first Somali to officiate at a World Cup.

In a statement, the ministry said that after learning he had been denied entry, it opened significant talks with the US government and FIFA, but no agreement was reached. A senior adviser said Artan held a valid visa.

The ministry hailed him as a shining example of Somali youth whose international achievements inspire pride. Named Africa’s top referee in 2025, Artan said he remained positive, thanked FIFA and CAF, and said he would maintain his standards while focusing on the future.

US customs, without naming him, said a Somali national arrived at Miami International Airport on Saturday and was turned back due to issues with background checks.

FIFA confirmed on Monday evening that the official would not take part in the World Cup, which runs from 11 June to 19 July, adding that the host government has the final say on visas and admission.

Somalia is among the countries whose citizens face a United States travel ban under Donald Trump’s administration. In late November, Trump described Somalia as a "rotten country" and signalled plans to end special protections against deportation for Somali nationals.

Source: L'Équipe