Somali Referee Omar Artan Denied Entry to FIFA World Cup 2026 but Receives Full Fee

Omar Artan, a Somali referee, faced a setback when he was denied entry to the FIFA World Cup 2026 due to immigration issues. Despite this, FIFA has committed to paying him his full tournament fee. Artan, who has earned recognition as one of Africa's top referees, remains hopeful for future opportunities, including officiating at the FIFA World Cup 2030. His journey reflects both the challenges and aspirations of sports officials on the global stage.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 14, 2026, 17:18 IST

Omar Artan's World Cup Journey Cut Short

Omar Artan, a Somali referee, will still receive his complete tournament payment despite not officiating any matches during the FIFA World Cup 2026. His assignment was abruptly halted before the tournament began when immigration officials at Miami International Airport denied him entry into the United States.

Artan, recognized as one of Africa's top referees, faced an 11-hour interrogation before being informed of his entry denial. A US government representative cited his alleged "association with suspected members of terror organizations" as the reason for the refusal. Artan has firmly rejected these claims, stating he has no ties to Al Shabab and was merely pursuing his dream of officiating at the World Cup.

"I had all the necessary documents and the correct visa," Artan explained. "I am just a referee trying to fulfill my biggest dream of attending the World Cup." Following his denial, he was placed on a flight back to Turkey, where FIFA officials later assisted him in returning to Mogadishu, Somalia.

According to a BBC report, FIFA has assured Artan that he will receive his full World Cup fee, although referees typically learn their exact compensation only after the tournament concludes. Artan has made a name for himself in the officiating world, having been awarded the Confederation of African Football (CAF) men's referee of the year in 2025 and becoming the first Somali to officiate a continental final.

His rising profile also led to his participation in the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile, where he officiated three matches, including the third-place playoff. In 2025, he officiated two group-stage matches at the Africa Cup of Nations, having previously worked at the tournament in 2024.

Despite the setback at the World Cup, UEFA has offered him a new opportunity to officiate the UEFA Super Cup between Paris Saint-Germain and Aston Villa in Salzburg, Austria, on August 12. Artan remains determined to achieve his goal of officiating at the FIFA World Cup 2030.