Somali Referee Denied US Entry Over Alleged Terror Links

Mon Jun 15 2026 08:29:52 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

US officials deny Somali referee Omar Artan entry to the United States citing suspected ties to terror groups, causing outrage and debates over immigration policy.

Omar Artan, a celebrated Somali football referee, was barred from entering the United States despite holding a diplomatic passport and visa. US Customs officials cited alleged associations with suspected terrorist organisations, leading to his return to Mogadishu. The case highlights tensions between immigration security measures and the global sporting community, raising concerns about bias against immigrants from certain regions.

Somali Referee Denied US Entry Over Alleged Terror Links

Somali referee Omar Artan, named CAF's referee of the year for 2025, was denied entry to the United States on Monday at Miami International Airport. The denial came despite Artan holding a diplomatic passport and a single‑entry US visa.

According to a former Trump‑era source, Customs and Border Protection officials discovered “derogatory information, including association with suspected members of terror organisations,” making the traveler ineligible for admission under the Immigration and Nationality Act. The official cited Section 8235 for expedited removal.

Artan returned home to Mogadishu on Wednesday, where he was welcomed by Somali Football Federation officials and President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. A number of Somali citizens lined the airport, hoping to see their national hero.

In a brief statement captured by the New York Times, Artan noted that he had been questioned about links to Al Shabab and claimed ignorance of the group. “I am determined to officiate at the 2030 World Cup,” he said, adding, “Somalia belongs to everyone.”

The incident underscores the broader travel ban introduced by President Trump in 2025, which barred 12 countries—including Somalia—from entering the United States under any visa category. The policy has stirred controversy among immigrant communities and sporting bodies worldwide.

Implications for the Sporting Community

FIFA officials insist they support referees like Artan, but the timing of his ban interrupts participation plans for the upcoming World Cup.

The denial raises questions about fairness in travel restrictions applied to officials from conflict‑torn regions.

Human rights groups warn that the policy may entangle innocent professionals based on jurisdiction rather than individual conduct.

Artan has promised his commitment to the sport and his country, calling the experience “unfortunate” but refraining from name‑calling his accusers. His situation has become a focal point in discussions about the balance between national security and global sportsmanship.

Further coverage and analysis can be found on BBC Sport and related outlets.