Iran fans and referee denied entry into US ahead of World Cup

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Jun 9, 2026, 3:11 PM

Last updated Jun 9, 2026

Iran fans and referee denied entry into US ahead of World Cup
Summary

Numerous individuals face US visa issues as the 2026 World Cup approaches. Iranian supporters have had their ticket allocation revoked just days before the tournament starts. The Iranian national team's officials have also reported visa denials, impacting their ability to participate fully in the tournament. Additionally, Somalian referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan was refused entry into the US due to unspecified vetting concerns, which has raised questions about the immigration processes in place during the event. As the World Cup is set to commence soon, these issues could affect the logistics and experiences of those involved.

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By the Numbers
  • Iran claims ticket allocation for fans revoked before World Cup.
  • Iran team to limit US travel to match days only.
  • Somalian referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan denied US entry.
  • FIFA not involved in host country immigration processes.
  • World Cup matches begin in Mexico City this Thursday.
Latest Updates
  • 3:11 PMYahoo SportsIran fans and an African referee: All the people unable to enter Trump’s United States for World Cup
What they're saying
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Numerous figures have endured US visa and entry issues and the list is growing, two days out from the 2026 World Cup

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