Artan was reportedly travelling from Kenya via Turkey when US immigration authorities turned him away. A diplomatic passport supplied with support from Somalia’s embassy in Nairobi was also said to have been rejected, with no clear explanation given.
If the account is accurate, the decision threatens a landmark appointment. Artan was expected to become the first Somali official selected for a World Cup. Reports also say he has been on ’s international list since 2018 and was named the Confederation of African Football’s Referee of the Year for 2025.
That background makes the episode more than a routine administrative setback. It concerns an official with established international experience and a potentially historic role.
The incident comes amid other reported difficulties connected to entry into the United States ahead of the tournament, which will be hosted by the US, Canada and Mexico.
Each case may have a different explanation. Together, however, they underline the logistical pressure facing teams, officials and supporters travelling across three host nations.
Earlier reports had indicated that Artan’s visa issue was resolved and that he would be available for World Cup duties. The latest development conflicts with that expectation, leaving his status uncertain.
and the relevant US authorities now need to clarify whether Artan can enter the country for tournament preparations and officiating assignments. The next test will be whether he is admitted in time for pre-tournament activity-and whether other unresolved travel cases are settled before the World Cup begins.