Infantino addresses visa denial for Somali referee ahead of World Cup
3 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 10, 2026, 8:40 PM
Last updated Jun 10, 2026
FIFA president Gianni Infantino called for calm regarding Somali referee Omar Artan's denial of entry to the United States. Speaking at a press conference on June 10, 2026, Infantino stated that Artan, who was set to be the first Somali referee at a World Cup, believed he held a valid visa. Infantino described the situation as unfortunate but emphasized FIFA's limited control over government decisions. He mentioned ongoing efforts to address issues surrounding the tournament, including Iran's participation.
- •Omar Artan was denied entry to officiate at the World Cup.
- •Infantino's comments sought to reassure concerns about the situation.
- •Artan believed he had a valid visa despite the US travel ban.
- •Infantino discussed the importance of security and government decisions.
- •Iran's participation in the World Cup was also addressed amidst ongoing conflict.
- 8:40 PMYahoo Sports — Infantino urges people to 'chill' and put faith in FIFA at World Cup
"FIFA President Gianni Infantino urged people to "chill" and put their faith in his organization, saying it was doing its best to tackle visa issues impacting the World Cup. Referee Omar Artan was denied entry to the United States earlier this week, with FIFA later confirming he would play no part in the tournament.
"FIFA president Gianni Infantino called for people to "chill and relax" over Somali referee Omar Artan being denied entry to the United States to officiate at the World Cup.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsJun 10, 2026, 8:40 PMInfantino urges people to 'chill' and put faith in FIFA at World Cup
FIFA President Gianni Infantino urged people to "chill" and put their faith in his organization, saying it was doing its best to tackle visa issues impacting the World Cup. Referee Omar Artan was denied entry to the United States earlier this week, with FIFA later confirming he would play no part in the tournament.
- Sky Sports—Infantino tells people to 'chill and relax' after Somali referee denied US entry
FIFA president Gianni Infantino called for people to "chill and relax" over Somali referee Omar Artan being denied entry to the United States to officiate at the World Cup.
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