Somali referee, Omar Artan, who was set to be the first from his country to officiate at the World Cup finals, has been denied entry to the United States.
Artan, the 2025 Confederation of African Football (CAF) men’s referee of the year, was barred from entering the country at Miami International Airport and is currently in Turkey.
No reason for Artan’s repatriation has been issued by US immigration authorities, but Somalia is one of several countries on a travel ban list introduced by President Donald Trump’s administration.
Artan is among the 52 referees announced by FIFA to officiate at the World Cup finals in Canada, Mexico and the United States, which runs from 12 June to 19 July.
An official in the Somali national football league championships, Artan became a FIFA referee in 2018 and has officiated at the African Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Manchester United have sacked Michael Carrick as head coach following a disappointing start to the…
Martín Zubimendi has denied he is considering leaving Arsenal in the January transfer window amid…
The 2026 Ikogosi 17.5km Race has generated significant economic activity across host communities and Ekiti…
Tanzanian golfer, Neema Olomi, has won the 2026 edition of the Nigeria Ladies Open Championship…
Leeds United could miss out on Zaidu Sanusi after the Super Eagles defender indicated that…
The Senate has announced a donation of N100million to the victorious Flamingos, the country's teenage…
This website uses cookies.