FIFA says Somali referee Omar Artan will receive his full 2026 FIFA World Cup match fee even after the United States denies him entry and he cannot officiate. Multiple reports state Artan, 34, was selected by FIFA as one of the tournament’s match officials and arrived at Miami International Airport, where he is questioned and then barred from entering. Sources describe the decision as linked to U.S. vetting concerns, including claims that he has “association with suspected members of terror organizations.”
Despite not traveling onto the field, reporting agrees that FIFA will still process his remuneration because he is not being removed for reasons such as performance, fitness, or discipline. Several outlets also note Artan is welcomed back home and remains involved in football. One outlet adds that he has been appointed to officiate the UEFA Super Cup, indicating continued match-official duties outside the World Cup.
Overall, FIFA’s position focuses on payment continuity for officials selected for the tournament, while the U.S. action focuses on immigration and security screening.
