FIFA Chief Says Somali Referee’s U.S. Entry Denial Is ‘Unfortunate’ but Outside FIFA’s Authority

MOGADISHU, Somalia – FIFA President Gianni Infantino on Friday described the reported denial of entry to the United States for Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan as “unfortunate,” while making clear that football’s world governing body has no power to override decisions made by governments or security agencies.

At a press conference, Infantino said FIFA was handling the matter through dialogue and diplomatic channels after reports surfaced that the internationally recognised Somali referee had been blocked from entering the U.S.

“It is unfortunate what happened to Omar, the referee from Somalia,” Infantino said. “We always try to resolve situations like these. We will discuss it, we will contact the relevant parties, and we will see what is possible.”

Infantino said FIFA routinely works quietly to help resolve problems involving players and match officials, but noted that public pressure does not always speed up a solution.

“Sometimes immediate alarm does not necessarily make it easier to solve these issues,” he said, adding that FIFA remained committed to pursuing every available option to assist.

The FIFA president also drew a firm line around the organisation’s reach, saying it cannot overturn sovereign decisions taken by states.

“We are not kings of the world who can give orders to governments and police forces,” he said. “We are a sports organisation, and we do everything within our power.”

Artan, one of Somalia’s best-known sporting figures and the 2025 CAF Referee of the Year, has drawn intense attention at home after being denied entry to the United States, despite diplomatic efforts by the Somali government to clear his travel.

The incident has sparked solidarity from Somali officials, sports organisations and ordinary citizens, while questions continue to mount over the reasons behind the decision and the authorities involved.

AXADLETM