FIFA chief breaks silence on Somali referee’s US deportation

FIFA president Gianni Infantino publicly addressed the deportation of Somali referee Omar Artan, calling the situation “unfortunate” while stressing that football’s governing body cannot override national authorities.

Speaking at a press conference ahead of the tournament, Infantino responded to growing criticism after Artan — recognised last year as Africa’s top men’s referee — was denied entry into the United States despite reportedly holding valid travel documentation.

According to reports, Artan arrived at Miami International Airport but was refused admission and later returned to Turkey.

The case has sparked debate because Artan was set to make history as the first Somali referee to officiate at a FIFA World Cup finals.

Infantino acknowledged disappointment over the development but emphasized the limits of FIFA’s authority.

“We try always to find solutions, but we are not the kings of the world who can rule over governments and police forces,” he said, adding that FIFA remains a sports organisation and must respect national decisions.

US authorities later stated that the referee had been linked to individuals suspected of involvement with terrorist organisations, making him ineligible for admission under immigration rules.

The issue widened further after reports emerged that several members of Iran’s support staff also faced visa complications ahead of the tournament.

When asked whether FIFA had lost control of its own event, Infantino pushed back strongly.

Drawing a comparison, he questioned whether future World Cup host governments should accept FIFA deciding who enters their countries.

The FIFA chief urged observers to remain patient, clarifying comments in which he had earlier asked the media to “chill and relax.”

He explained that the phrase was not meant to suggest inaction but rather confidence that FIFA was actively working behind the scenes.

“Our world is a very aggressive world; security rules above everything,” Infantino said.

Despite political tensions and logistical hurdles, Infantino pointed to FIFA’s efforts in ensuring teams could still participate, saying successfully bringing Iran to compete in the United States demonstrated the organisation’s continued engagement.

As World Cup excitement builds, the controversy highlights how global sport increasingly intersects with international politics, security and immigration realities — sometimes creating stories far beyond the football pitch.