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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Sport
Flo Clifford

White House explains why it denied Somali referee entry to US for World Cup

United States Omar Artan World Cup
  • Somali referee Omar Artan was denied entry to the US for the World Cup despite holding a valid visa, following an 11-hour immigration interview.
  • The Trump administration stated Artan was deemed a "national security threat" by US Customs and Border Protection due to alleged links with "suspected members of terror organisations".
  • Artan, who was Africa’s referee of the year in 2025, expressed profound disappointment at missing his dream of officiating at the World Cup.
  • Somalia 's government unsuccessfully attempted to negotiate Artan's entry, highlighting his international achievements as a source of national pride.
  • FIFA stated it is not involved in host country immigration processes and confirmed Artan would not officiate, with other World Cup personnel also facing entry issues.

IN FULL

Trump administration says Somali referee denied US entry over links to ‘terror organisation’ suspects

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