FIFA has officially confirmed that Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan will not participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup after being denied entry into the United States, bringing an unfortunate end to what would have been a historic moment for Somali football.
Artan had been selected among the 52 referees appointed to officiate at the expanded 48-team tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico. His appointment was celebrated across Africa, as he was poised to become the first Somali referee to officiate at a FIFA World Cup.
However, those plans have now been derailed following a decision by US authorities to deny him entry into the country.
In a statement released on Tuesday, FIFA confirmed the development and expressed regret over the situation.
“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,” the governing body said.
FIFA also clarified that it has no authority over immigration or visa matters and therefore could not influence the outcome of the case.
“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.”
The world football governing body further emphasized that decisions regarding entry into host nations remain the sole responsibility of national governments.
“In line with previous FIFA events, a host government ultimately determines who receives a visa and who is admitted into their country.”
The decision represents a major disappointment for Artan, who has established himself as one of Africa’s most respected referees through years of consistent performances in continental and international competitions. His selection for the World Cup was widely viewed as recognition of his dedication and excellence in officiating.
Beyond the personal setback for Artan, the development is also a blow to Somalia, which had hoped to see one of its own represented on football’s grandest stage. His absence also reduces African representation among the match officials selected for the tournament.
Despite the setback, Artan remains highly regarded within global football circles, and many expect him to continue officiating at top-level international competitions in the years ahead. While his historic World Cup debut will have to wait, his achievements have already inspired a new generation of Somali referees dreaming of following in his footsteps.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to kick off on June 11 across the United States, Canada and Mexico, with millions of fans expected to follow the month-long spectacle.
