Somali referee Omar Al Arton returned to his homeland after being refused entry into the United States due to information suggesting possible connections to terrorist organizations.
On 10 June 2026, Somali referee Omar Al Arton was denied entry into the United States to officiate at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after authorities found information suggesting he might be linked to individuals suspected of involvement with terrorist groups. Consequently, he had to return to his country and end his role as a World Cup referee since Somalia is among the high-security risk countries. It is one of 12 nations banned under legislation originally enacted by the Donald Trump administration.
Recently, Al Arton arrived safely in his home country, where he received a warm welcome from sports officials, football community members, and many citizens who still regard him as a national pride despite not being given the chance to officiate at this World Cup.
Al Arton is considered one of Africa’s top referees and was named Africa's best referee in 2025. Had he participated, he would have become the first Somali referee in history to officiate at the world's biggest football tournament.