Trump administration reveals why Somalian referee was denied entry into USA

The administration of US President Donald Trump has said top Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan was denied entry into the United States to officiate at the 2026 World Cup due to alleged terrorism-related concerns.

On arrival, the referee was screened and questioned by US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to assess his eligibility.

Officials later claimed they found links between Artan and suspected terror networks, which made him ineligible under US immigration rules.

“This individual was seeking admission to the United States. Upon further inspection by CBP, derogatory information, including association with suspected members of terror organizations, was discovered, making the traveler ineligible for admission to the United States under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).

“The traveler was refused admission and given immigration forms that provide the section of law used to complete an expedited removal under 8235 of the INA. President Trump’s administration will not allow any security threat to enter our country,” the statement said.

Artan had earlier faced visa issues but later received approval after public support helped clear delays. He travelled from Kenya, passed through Turkey, and arrived in the US to prepare for FIFA duties.

However, he was denied entry upon arrival and sent back to Turkey.

The decision has triggered global criticism, with FIFA reportedly unable to intervene before the tournament.