Z-SPORTS

14 June, 2026

Somali Referee Omar Artan Denied US Entry but to Receive Full World Cup Fee

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Somali referee Omar Artan has been denied entry to the United States after an 11-hour interrogation, ruling him out of officiating at the World Cup.

He was questioned over alleged links to suspected militant groups, which he denied.

Despite the setback, FIFA confirmed he will still receive his full tournament fee.

The 2025 CAF Referee of the Year has since returned to Somalia and remains focused on his career, including an invitation to referee the UEFA Super Cup in Austria.