Reports have emerged surrounding Somali-born football referee Omar Artan, who is widely regarded as one of Africa’s top referees for 2025, alleging that he was denied entry into the United States ahead of upcoming FIFA World Cup-related duties.

According to these reports, Artan was expected to travel to the United States as part of officiating preparations connected to international football activities linked to the tournament cycle.

However, his entry was reportedly refused by US immigration authorities, preventing him from joining scheduled assignments.

After speaking to the US authorities, world governing body Fifa said Artan will miss the tournament.

“Fifa can confirm that match official Omar Abdulkadir Artan will be unable to train and officiate at the Fifa World Cup 2026 after he was denied entry into the United States,” read a statement.

“Fifa is not involved in host country immigration processes, including visa adjudications, and has been informed by authorities that Mr Artan’s status will not be changed at present.

“In line with previous Fifa events, a host government ultimately determines who receives a visa and who is admitted into their country.”

The Somali Football Federation (SFF) has contacted Fifa seeking urgent clarification.

Speaking to BBC World Service, Andrew Giuliani, who leads the White House Task Force on the World Cup, said: “While I can’t go into the derog [derogatory information] on that I can tell you it was the right decision by customs and border patrol and I support that decision.”

The situation has sparked discussion within football circles, particularly across African sporting communities, where Artan has built a strong reputation for consistency, discipline, and officiating at high-level continental competitions.

Supporters and analysts have raised concerns about the potential impact such administrative or travel issues could have on the selection and availability of match officials for major global tournaments.

Omar Artan, who has steadily risen through the ranks of African football officiating, is considered part of a growing group of referees representing the continent on the international stage. His recognition as one of the leading referees for 2025 highlights his recent performances in major competitions under the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

As the story develops, stakeholders in the football community are calling for clarity, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that qualified officials are not hindered by logistical or administrative barriers ahead of global tournaments.