India, June 9 -- In a shocking development just days before the FIFA World Cup 2026 kick-off on June 11, Somali international referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan was turned away by immigration authorities at Miami International Airport and sent directly back on a flight to Istanbul.

Artan, who was named Africa's Best Referee at the CAF Awards, was set to make history as the first-ever official from Somalia to referee at a World Cup finals. According to on-the-ground reports from Agence France-Presse (AFP), local football association officials, his lifelong dream was cut short at the border despite holding a valid visa and a diplomatic passport.

Why Was Omar Artan Denied Entry to US Territory For FIFA World Cup 2026?

The US Customs and Border...