2026 World Cup: White House justifies exclusion of Somali referee and Iranian officials

The White House defended the exclusion of Somali referee Omar Artan and the denial of visas to about fifteen Iranian officials ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Andrew Giuliani cited 'good reasons' to prevent 'malicious actors' from entering the United States. The referee, who had a valid visa, was turned away on Saturday, and FIFA announced he would not officiate during the tournament. No players or coaches have been denied entry, Giuliani said.