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Somali World Cup Referee Denied U.S. Entry Days Before Tournament Begins

Somali World Cup Referee Denied U.S. Entry Days Before Tournament Begins

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The U.S. has denied entry to Somali FIFA referee Omar Artan, citing "inadmissible" status due to vetting concerns. Artan was among 52 referees selected for the upcoming World Cup, which is set to start on Friday.

FIFA
1. In line with previous FIFA events, a host government ultimately determines who receives a visa and who is admitted into their country.
2. 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.
3. 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.
US Customs and Border Protection
1. Following inspection, the traveler, a referee for the FIFA World Cup, was determined to be inadmissible due to vetting concerns and was denied entry.
2. During processing, the traveler underwent additional inspection, a routine part of CBP's inspection process when officers need to verify information or determine admissibility.
US Homeland Security Department
1. CBP officers have the authority to question travelers, conduct inspections, and determine admissibility consistent with US law.
Hassan Sheikh Mohamud
1. I commend the effort, professionalism, and integrity shown by referee Omar, as he has become a symbol of inspiration for the new generation of Somalis.
Zohran Mamdani
Democratic Party
1. We will not allow ICE or anyone else to sow fear in our communities — especially at this moment. As the world comes to our city, we will stand proudly with our immigrant neighbors and reject these attacks for what they are: an attempt to divide us.
2. Soccer would not exist without immigrants. Immigrants play and coach the game, work in the stadiums, fill the stands, and make celebrations like the World Cup possible. Six of the players on the US Men's National Team are immigrants.
Claudia Sheinbaum
Morena Party
1. We are going to guarantee... that the celebration of the World Cup is well-executed, in peace and tranquility.
Ciise Aden Abshir
Somalia Youth and Sports Ministry
1. Denying him entry to the United States and preventing him from officiating scheduled matches harms not only him personally but also undermines football's commitment to fairness, merit, and the spirit of fair play.
2. Omar Artan is among Africa's most respected referees and deserves the support of the entire football community.
Omar Artan
FIFA
1. I would like to thank FIFA and CAF for all their support and I promise to keep my refereeing levels up as I concentrate on the future.
2. I want to thank the football family for their messages and wish my colleagues all the best success during the World Cup and I look forward to joining them again in future competitions.
3. Despite the circumstances, I am in a positive mood and I am focused on the next challenges in my refereeing career.

Somali World Cup Referee Denied U.S. Entry Days Before Tournament Begins

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