Former Arsenal striker and football pundit, Ian Wright has criticised United States authorities following the reported denial of entry to Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, describing the development as another setback for a tournament already facing scrutiny over immigration-related concerns.
Artan, one of Africa’s most highly regarded match officials, was reportedly denied entry into the United States despite travelling with a valid visa. According to reports, U.S. authorities cited “vetting concerns” in refusing him admission, a decision that effectively ruled him out of participation in the tournament.
The Somali referee had been selected by FIFA among the officials scheduled to officiate at the World Cup and was expected to become the first Somali referee to feature at football’s biggest tournament.
Artan’s exclusion has generated widespread reaction within football circles, particularly across Africa, where many have described the decision as a blow to representation and inclusivity in the global game.
Reacting to the controversy in comments carried by Sky News Sports, Wright questioned the impact of such incidents on the credibility and spirit of the tournament.
He said,“Every few hours it’s another story about fans denied, officials denied, players denied, now referees. It’s not funny. Most expensive tickets ever, accommodation, transport through the roof.
“It has to be said. Is this how the hosts behave for the greatest tournament in the world? Is this the spirit of football, really? This is a World Cup of chaos.”
The incident has intensified debate over U.S. immigration policies ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada.
Critics argue that stricter immigration controls and enhanced screening procedures risk creating obstacles for athletes, officials and supporters travelling to major international sporting events. Supporters of the measures, however, maintain that immigration decisions are guided by national security considerations and established vetting processes.
Reports of visa delays, additional screening requirements and uncertainty affecting some World Cup participants have further fueled concerns about accessibility and logistics ahead of the tournament.
FIFA has previously stated that immigration and visa decisions remain the responsibility of host governments and fall outside the governing body’s direct authority. As a result, the organisation has limited capacity to intervene when accredited officials, players or supporters encounter entry restrictions imposed by national authorities.
The controversy has also renewed discussions about whether future host nations should be required to provide guarantees ensuring access for all accredited World Cup participants, including players, match officials, team personnel and media representatives.
For many observers, the case of Artan has become a test of the balance between national immigration policies and the principle of open participation that underpins major international sporting competitions.
With the countdown to the 2026 World Cup continuing, the incident is likely to keep questions about travel access, accreditation and host-nation obligations firmly in the spotlight.