$FIFA chief Infantino hopeful of solution over Omar Artan\'s World Cup exclusion$

FIFA chief Infantino hopeful of solution over Omar Artan's World Cup exclusion

Wed 10th Jun, 2026 22:11

FIFA president Gianni Infantino says efforts are continuing to find a solution after Somali referee Omar Artan was denied entry into the United States ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Artan, who was selected to officiate at the tournament, was refused entry by U.S. authorities upon arrival in Miami despite holding a valid visa. U.S. officials later said the decision was linked to alleged associations with suspected members of terrorist organisations, a claim Artan has denied.

Speaking about the situation, Infantino said FIFA was engaged in discussions but stressed that the organisation could not override decisions made by national governments.

"We are trying, we are talking, we are exchanging ideas, we will see," Infantino said.

"Sometimes, it is good to relax, to work on every aspect, and to try to find solutions. Immediately shouting and yelling produces the opposite effect from the one intended."

The FIFA president acknowledged the limits of the governing body's authority in immigration matters.

"We are always looking for solutions, but it must be clearly understood that we are not the masters of the world, able to impose our will on governments and police forces. We are a sports organization."

Artan had been due to become the first Somali referee to officiate at a FIFA World Cup. His exclusion has sparked widespread debate, with Somalia's government continuing efforts to resolve the matter in the hope that he could still participate in the tournament.

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FIFA president Infantino hopes to resolve Omar Artan's World Cup exclusion issue

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