By Maribel Velazquez
The organization of the 2026 FIFA World Cup faces a new controversy related to immigration policy after denying the entry of Omar Abdulkadir Artanone of the most recognized referees in African football, who planned to participate in preparation and training activities for the tournament to be organized by the United States, Mexico and Canada.
According to information from CBS News, the federal agency that belongs to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the Customs and Border Protection (CBP), determined that Somali officer expertise “inadmissible” following an additional security screening conducted upon arrival at Miami International Airport from Istanbul.
The decision has generated criticism within the international sports field and has once again put the immigration restrictions promoted by Donald Trump’s administration under the spotlight.
FIFA confirms that it will not be able to participate
A FIFA spokesperson confirmed that Artan will not be able to take part in activities related to the 2026 World Cup.
“FIFA does not participate in the immigration processes of the host country”the organization said, adding that the US authorities reported that the referee’s situation will not change for now.
Although the executive order known as “run ban” contemplates exceptions for athletes and non-public related to the World Cup, immigration authorities retain the power to authorize or deny entry on a case-by-case basis.
World under the immigration microscope
The case was won a few days after start of the 2026 World Cup and amid concerns about the impact of US immigration policies on the development of the tournament.
Even Iranian soccer leaders have reported difficulties obtaining visaswhile US officials have made clear that security operations will be led by federal agencies, including ICE.
“The priority is to guarantee the safety of these events, the safety of the nation and the safety of spectators and athletes,” he declared. Tom Homanresponsible for White House border policy.
Ciise Aden Abshir, advisor to the Somali Ministry of Youth and Sports, called the measure unfair and stated that Artan is “one of the most respected referees in Africa.” He also argued that the decision “undermines football’s commitment to impartiality, merit and the spirit of fair play.”
The referee has a distinguished record in international competitions, including the African Cup of Nations, and was named male referee of the year by the Confederation of African Football in 2025.
Two worldwide locations, two very alternative World Cup welcomes
Mexico greets arriving groups with music and dancing
The US hits them with strict security and thorough inspections below blazing sun the 2nd they step off the plane pic.twitter.com/ZGSFrayVKj
— RT (@RT_com) June 9, 2026
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