Linked to Terror Organizations: Why the Referee Was Deported

Following the Somali World Cup uproar, the White House said, “We will not allow a security threat.” Sport 5 Published: 10.06.26, 18:27 (GETTY) | Photo: Sport 5

Omar Artan of Somalia has remained in the headlines ahead of the start of the World Cup, after the United States refused to allow him to enter its territory and deported him back to Istanbul. Now, after the controversy and criticism, the White House issued an official statement on the matter through The Athletic.

“According to a review by the Border Protection and Customs Administration, negative information was received about the referee,” it said. “This information includes ties to people in terrorist organizations. As a result, he is considered ineligible to enter the United States under the Immigration and Nationality Act. The Trump administration will not allow any security threat to enter its country. Period.”

Artan officiated the second leg of the African Champions League final last season and was also named the best African referee in 2025.

As recalled, FIFA itself recently addressed the matter and wrote: “FIFA is not involved in the immigration, passport and visa procedures of the host countries, and this does not depend on it. It understood from the authorities that the referee’s situation is not going to change. As with other FIFA events, every government has the right to decide who will receive an entry visa and who will not.”

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