Somali referee Omar Artan was barred from entering the United States after his selection to officiate at the World Cup.
On Monday, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) confirmed that Artan was denied entry upon arriving at Miami International Airport from Istanbul on Saturday. While the CBP statement did not specify his name, FIFA later identified him as the only World Cup referee representing Somalia.
According to the CBP statement, “During processing, the traveler underwent additional inspection, a routine part of CBP’s procedures when officers need to verify information or determine admissibility. Following inspection, the traveler, a referee for the FIFA World Cup, was deemed inadmissible due to vetting concerns and was subsequently denied entry.”
CBP emphasized that all individuals seeking entry into the U.S., including players, coaches, and support staff, must undergo CBP inspections and vetting.
“Admissibility determinations are made on a case-by-case basis using law enforcement, national security, and immigration information available at the time of inspection,” the statement added. “CBP officers have the authority to question travelers, conduct inspections, and determine admissibility in accordance with U.S. law.”
Somalia is among the countries listed by the U.S. as having immigration bans, although exceptions are possible.
Expressing his sentiments, Artan said, “Despite the circumstances, I am in a positive mindset and focused on the future challenges in my officiating career. I want to thank FIFA and the African federation for their support and assure everyone that I will maintain my refereeing standards as I look ahead. I extend my gratitude to the football community for their encouragement and wish my fellow referees great success in the World Cup. I hope to join them in future competitions.”
FIFA remarked previously, “FIFA is not involved in the immigration processes of host countries, including visa decisions, and has been informed by authorities that Mr. Artan’s status will not change for now. As with other FIFA events, the host government ultimately decides who receives a visa and who can enter the country.”
This incident poses a challenge for President Donald Trump’s administration, which has prioritized strict immigration enforcement. Although recent high-profile immigration arrests have decreased, the administration has attempted to create a welcoming atmosphere for World Cup visitors by relaxing some bond requirements for entrants from qualifying nations.
Nevertheless, the White House is still contemplating strict measures against those perceived as opposition, with Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin hinting at suspending customs operations at airports in cities resistant to Trump’s immigration policies. Ongoing disputes at an immigration detention center in New Jersey, located about 10 miles from the World Cup final venue, highlight the complexities the administration faces.
Andrew Giuliani, the executive director for the White House Task Force on the World Cup, noted on Friday, “If you are in the country legally, then you should have nothing to worry about. We want people to enjoy the World Cup while ensuring national safety.”
Information from The Associated Press was utilized in this report.