Best African Referee 2025 Omar Artan Denied Entry in Miami

Somali referee Omar Artan, voted best African referee in 2025, was denied entry to the United States upon arrival at Miami International Airport on Saturday from Istanbul. US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) did not confirm his identity, but FIFA announced that Artan will not be able to participate in preparations or officiate World Cup matches. In a statement, the referee said he remains optimistic despite the situation.