“Linked to Terror Organizations”: The Reason for the Referee’s Deportation

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

Omar Aran, the Somali referee, has been making headlines ahead of the World Cup opener, after the United States refused to allow him into 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 Organization and Customs, there was negative information regarding the referee," it said. "This information includes ties with people in terrorist organizations. As a result, he is deemed unfit 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."

Aran officiated last season in the second match of the African Champions League final and was also chosen as the best African referee in 2025.

As you may recall, FIFA itself recently addressed the issue 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 has understood from the authorities that the referee's situation will not change. As in other FIFA events, every government has the right to decide who will and will not receive an entry visa."

World Cup 2026

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