Omar Artan was named among match officials for 2026 World Cup but will miss the tournament after US refuses him entry.
Somali referee banned by US to officiate European Super Cup, UEFA says
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Story Timeline
Mon 21:37 - La Libre (BE)
Referee removed from 2026 World Cup after being refused entry to the United States
Mon 22:23 - Sky News (UK)
Top referee to miss World Cup after US denies him entry
Tue 00:05 - Washington Examiner
US denies entry to World Cup referee from Somalia over ‘vetting concerns’
Wed 05:46 - Washington Examiner
World Cup referee denied entry to the US due to ties to ‘members of terror organizations’
Wed 09:56 - France 24
World Cup ref denied entry to the US was about to make history for Somalia
Wed 10:36 - Fox News
Somali World Cup ref barred from US for 'association with suspected members of terror organizations': official
Wed 12:15 - Al Jazeera English
Hero’s welcome for Somali referee denied entry to US World Cup tournament
Thu 14:24 - Al Jazeera English
Somali referee banned by US to officiate European Super Cup, UEFA says