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MOGADISHU, Somalia — Somali international referee Omar Artan has been denied entry into the United States after immigration officials cited “derogatory information” allegedly linking him to suspected members of terrorist organisations, according to a US administration source.
The 34-year-old, who was named Africa’s Referee of the Year in 2025, had been expected to take part in preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup officiating programme but was stopped at Miami International Airport on Monday despite holding a diplomatic passport and a valid single-entry US visa.
Artan, who was set to become the first Somali referee at a World Cup finals, was later deported via Istanbul and returned to Mogadishu on Wednesday.
A Trump administration source said the decision followed a review by US Customs and Border Protection (CBP), which flagged concerns during secondary screening.
“Derogatory information, including association with suspected members of terror organisations, was discovered making the traveller ineligible for admission under the Immigration and Nationality Act,” the official said.
The source added that Artan was issued expedited removal documentation and denied entry on national security grounds.
“The Trump administration will not allow any security threat to enter our country, full stop,” the official said.
Artan has not been formally charged with any offence, and the specific evidence behind the allegations has not been publicly disclosed.
According to reports from international media, Artan underwent an 11-hour immigration interview at Miami International Airport before being detained and placed on a flight out of the United States.
He told Vivid Voice News that he was questioned about alleged links to Somalia’s Al-Shabaab militant group, claims he denied, saying he had no connection to the organisation.
Upon arrival in Mogadishu, he was received by Somali Football Federation officials, government representatives, fellow referees, and members of the public. He later met President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud at the Presidential Palace.
Speaking briefly at the airport, Artan thanked supporters and expressed determination to continue his refereeing career, including ambitions of officiating at the 2030 World Cup.
“I’d like to thank the officials, ministers, MPs and everyone. I want to thank my country and people for their support,” he said.
He urged young Somalis not to lose faith in their country despite his treatment.
“The youth shouldn’t be demoralised about their country. Despite this happening to me, I’ll still stand for my nation,” he said.
Somalia is among 12 countries affected by a travel restriction policy introduced under President Donald Trump’s administration, which has tightened entry requirements for nationals from selected states on security grounds.
Officials in Washington argue the measures are necessary for national security screening, while critics have repeatedly raised concerns about discrimination and due process in enforcement decisions.
Artan’s case has drawn particular attention due to his high-profile role in international football and his selection among 52 referees preparing for World Cup duties.
The incident has also raised logistical complications, as all referees selected for World Cup training and preparation are required to be based in the United States, with additional coordination hubs in Canada and Mexico.
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Artan’s removal from the programme could therefore impact his participation in the tournament unless FIFA or organisers intervene.
The case comes amid continued political sensitivity over US immigration policy toward Somalia, with earlier comments by President Trump about Somali migration drawing criticism from human rights groups and political leaders.
For now, Artan says he remains focused on his long-term goal of officiating at the highest level of international football.
“I promise you that I’ll be officiating in the next World Cup,” he said.
