Somali Referee Denied U.S. Entry, Honored as Hero at Home

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Omar Abdulkadir Artan, a Somali referee, returned home to a hero’s welcome after being denied entry into the United States. Artan was traveling to participate in the World Cup. Upon his arrival in Mogadishu, Somalia on June 10, 2026, he was greeted by government officials with flowers and fans draped him in the Somali flag.

In Mogadishu, thousands gathered at a stadium not for a soccer match, but to celebrate Artan’s return. He was lifted onto shoulders amidst cheers from the crowd, serving as a symbol of national pride.

“What happened has happened and it was fate. I am grateful for the support FIFA gave me,” Artan told reporters in Mogadishu.

Despite the setback, Artan expressed determination to his supporters. He intends to attend the next World Cup and encouraged the youth to pursue their goals without disappointment.

Artan was denied entry by U.S. Customs and Border Protection at Miami International Airport. He held a diplomatic passport and a valid visa. Andrew Giuliani, leading the White House World Cup task force, defended the decision, citing concerns about potential communication with harmful actors.

An anonymous Trump administration official alleged Artan’s association with “suspected members of terror organizations.” NPR reached out to Artan for comment, but he has not responded. FIFA confirmed Artan would not be able to train at the tournament, which is held in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.

The U.S. has been a key partner in Somalia, fighting the militant group Al-Shabaab. Some Somali citizens were angered by the U.S. accusations. Ilham Gasser, a Somali member of parliament, questioned why the concerns were not addressed during the visa process.

Last year, Somalia was among 12 countries affected by a U.S. travel ban. President Trump has criticized Somalia, describing it negatively. Nonetheless, Artan’s situation has become a moment of national pride in Somalia as they celebrate their own on the world stage. While Artan missed this World Cup, his achievement at home remains significant.