Somali referee Omar Artan denied US entry for World Cup, raising logistical concerns

Building on previous reports, Somali referee Omar Artan was denied entry to the United States for the 2026 World Cup, despite asserting he held "right papers" and a "right visa." Artan, Africa's top-ranked referee, underwent an 11-hour immigration interview upon arriving in Miami before being barred. His subsequent removal from the list of officials has prompted questions about the entry process for World Cup personnel into the host nation. The incident has also raised broader concerns regarding FIFA's oversight of logistical challenges for the upcoming global event, including potential difficulties for supporters.

Sources: BBC News — World