What happened: U.S. Customs and Border Protection has confirmed that Somali referee Omar Artan was denied entry into the United States. Artan was referred for additional screening at Miami International Airport before being deemed inadmissible due to vetting concerns. The official was scheduled to make history as the first Somali to referee at a World Cup tournament.

Why it matters: The decision eliminates the 2025 CAF Men's Referee of the Year from the tournament's officiating roster just days before the opening match. Somali sports officials have expressed deep disappointment, citing the move as a blow to football's commitment to international representation and fair play.

What to watch: Artan has reportedly returned to Istanbul following the visa revocation. FIFA has not yet designated a replacement official for the upcoming group stage assignments.