Somalia backs referee after he is denied entry to US
Somalia on Tuesday defended award-winning referee Omar Artan after he was denied entry to the United States, preventing him from becoming the first Somali official to officiate at a World Cup finals. In a statement, Somalia’s Ministry of Sports expressed “deep regret” over Artan’s denial of entry, saying despite diplomatic engagement with US authorities and world football governing body FIFA, it was “not possible to achieve a positive outcome”. Artan, who in 2025 was named me
Somalia has expressed strong disappointment after award-winning referee Omar Artan was denied entry into the United States, preventing his participation in the upcoming World Cup finals. Despite diplomatic efforts by Somalia and FIFA, U.S. Customs and Border Protection confirmed Artan was barred following a routine inspection. Artan, recognized as the African men's referee of the year for 2025, was set to be the first Somali official to officiate at a World Cup. The Somali government and former officials have voiced outrage, calling the decision a blow to Somali talent and African aspirations.
The incident highlights potential international travel barriers for individuals despite their professional achievements and raises questions about the impact of immigration policies on international sporting events.
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