Somali Referee Denied U.S. Entry for World Cup

On June 6, Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan, Africa's top male official in 2025, was barred from entering the U.S. at Miami International Airport due to vetting concerns and reported derogatory information tied to terror group associations, which he denied.

FIFA removed him from the referee roster after he missed the mandatory training camp, dashing his World Cup dream.

Back in Mogadishu on June 10, thousands welcomed him as a hero in a packed stadium, while FIFA's Gianni Infantino called the incident unfortunate but beyond their control. Critics, including Chef José Andrés and U.S. Rep. Jonathan Jackson, questioned the decision amid other visa hiccups for players and staff.

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