Somalia has defended referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan after he was denied entry into the United States, blocking his participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Artan, selected among FIFA’s 52 officials, was stopped at Miami International Airport on Saturday. US Customs cited a routine inspection.
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Somalia’s Ministry of Sports expressed “deep regret” and pledged “unwavering support,” praising his integrity and professionalism. FIFA confirmed he will not officiate at the tournament starting Thursday.
CAF said it could not intervene but voiced sympathy. Artan’s exclusion comes as Somalia remains on a US travel ban list introduced under President Donald Trump.
