# Somalia’s First World Cup Referee Returns Home to Hero’s Welcome After U.S. Bans His Entry

> Omar Abdulkadir Artan, set to become Somalia’s first World Cup referee, was denied entry to the United States on June 6 by border authorities, reportedly due to travel restrictions affecting Somali citizens. After retur…

Published: 2026-06-11 · Desk: Latest · Source: NBC News

Omar Abdulkadir Artan, who was expected to make history as Somalia’s first referee at the FIFA World Cup, was stopped from entering the United States on June 6 by U.S. border authorities. Reports suggest the decision was connected to travel restrictions affecting Somali citizens.

When Artan returned to Mogadishu, hundreds of supporters gathered to welcome him, celebrating his achievement despite the setback. U.S. officials later said the decision followed security screening procedures and cited concerns about possible links to groups viewed as security threats.

Original reporting: https://www.nbcnews.com/sports/soccer/referee-barred-entering-us-world-cup-receives-heros-welcome-somalia-rcna349155
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