FIFA has removed Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan from the list of officials for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after US authorities denied him entry into the country.

Artan, who was poised to become the first Somali referee to officiate at a World Cup finals, was reportedly stopped upon arrival at Miami International Airport and redirected. He is currently in Turkey, while US officials have yet to publicly explain the reason for the decision.

In a statement, FIFA said Artan would be unable to take part in tournament preparations or officiating duties due to his inability to enter the United States. The football governing body noted that immigration matters fall under the authority of host nations and are beyond FIFA’s control.

The development has generated concern in Somalia, with government officials insisting that Artan travelled with valid documents. The Somali Football Federation has since sought clarification from FIFA, while diplomatic efforts are reportedly underway to understand the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Speaking on the matter, White House World Cup Task Force head Andrew Giuliani defended the decision, saying US border authorities acted appropriately, although he declined to provide further details.

Artan, who was named CAF Men’s Referee of the Year in 2025, was among the 52 officials selected for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Since becoming a FIFA referee in 2018, he has officiated at major African competitions, including the Africa Cup of Nations.

His removal marks a disappointing setback for Somali football, as the country loses the opportunity to have its first-ever referee participate in football’s biggest tournament.