B.C. Premier Invites Somali World Cup Referee to Vancouver After U.S. Entry Denial

British Columbia Premier David Eby has publicly expressed support for Somali referee Omar Artan after the official was denied entry into the United States ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, suggesting that Vancouver would gladly welcome him to officiate matches in Canada.

Artan, who was set to become the first Somali referee in history to officiate at a FIFA World Cup, was stopped at Miami International Airport on Saturday and denied entry by U.S. authorities. According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the decision was made due to unspecified “vetting concerns.”

The development has sparked international attention and concern within the global football community, particularly because Artan had already received a valid U.S. visa and had been officially selected by FIFA for tournament duties.

Responding to the news, Premier David Eby took to social media platform X, stating that Artan would be “welcomed and celebrated” in British Columbia for his achievements and perseverance.

“Let’s have him referee in Vancouver,” Eby wrote, highlighting the province’s willingness to embrace the respected official despite the setback he encountered in the United States.

Artan has earned widespread recognition in international football circles. In 2025, he was named Africa’s Best Male Referee, a prestigious honor that reflected his growing reputation as one of the continent’s top match officials. His appointment to the World Cup was viewed as a historic milestone for Somalia and a source of pride for East African football.

FIFA confirmed that Artan would not be able to participate in training or officiating duties at the tournament following the U.S. decision. The governing body also noted that immigration and entry matters remain the responsibility of host governments and are beyond FIFA’s direct control.

The Somalia Youth and Sports Ministry has been actively working to resolve the situation. Officials say the Somali Embassy in the United States is seeking clarification and exploring possible avenues that would allow Artan to participate in the tournament.

Isse Aden Abshir, a senior adviser to Somalia’s sports ministry, suggested the refusal may be linked to broader U.S. travel restrictions affecting Somali nationals rather than any concerns specific to Artan himself.

The controversy emerges just days before the FIFA World Cup kicks off on Thursday across North America. While most matches will take place in the United States, Canada is also serving as a host nation, with Vancouver scheduled to host seven World Cup matches and Toronto six.

The incident has renewed debate about immigration policies and the challenges faced by athletes, officials, and supporters from certain countries seeking to participate in global sporting events. Critics argue that such restrictions risk undermining the inclusive spirit of international competitions.

For many in Somalia and across Africa, Artan’s appointment represented a landmark achievement. His potential exclusion from the tournament has therefore been met with disappointment, while supporters continue to hope that diplomatic efforts may yet secure a solution.

As FIFA, Somali officials, and international stakeholders monitor the situation, Premier Eby’s invitation has added a Canadian voice to growing calls for Artan to be given the opportunity to fulfill his historic role on football’s biggest stage.

Courtesy: ctvnews