Somali referee Omar Artan denied entry to the US for World Cup
Story essentials
Omar Artan, US immigration authorities, FIFA
Miami, USA
June 8, 2026
This page is produced by collecting and structuring multiple public reports. Sections based only on reporting or testimony affect the displayed assessment, and the page is updated when new information is identified.
About this article
COMPAMIR Editorial Team
The COMPAMIR editorial team brings together public reporting and links to the original coverage. We update the page as new information emerges.
Read our editorial policy- Earlier version 16/14/2026, 7:40:25 PM
Somali referee Omar Artan was denied entry to the US for the World Cup due to alleged associations with terror groups. Artan was interrogated for 11 hours at Miami International Airport before being sent back. FIFA has committed to paying his full tournament salary despite his absence.
Read next
Prioritized by shared people, places, and events.
São Tomé and Príncipe plantation sites added to UNESCO World Heritage List
Two historic plantation sites in São Tomé and Príncipe added to UNESCO World Heritage List. The sites reflect the colonial history of coffee and cocoa production. The recognition highlights the history of forced labor and cultural exchange.