Ivory Coast international Elye Wahi, initially denied entry to Canada for a World Cup game, has now been granted authorization to travel. Wahi, a Nice forward, was reportedly arrested last month over alleged spot-fixing in Ligue 1.
Thomas Partey, 33, was denied entry to Canada for Ghana's World Cup opener against Panama due to ongoing criminal proceedings in the UK. An appeal to enter the country was rejected by a federal court in Ottawa.
Somali referee Omar Artan will receive his full World Cup remuneration despite being denied entry into the United States. Artan was deemed "inadmissible due to vetting concerns" at Miami International Airport, preventing him from officiating at the tournament.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino expressed regret over a Somali referee being denied entry to the US for the 2026 World Cup, stating FIFA cannot control everything. He addressed issues like Iran's participation and ticket prices at a press conference.
Somali referee Omar Artan, denied entry to the US for the 2026 World Cup, returned to Mogadishu to a hero's welcome. Despite holding a valid visa and diplomatic passport, he was barred by US Customs and Border Protection due to 'admissibility issues,' with a Trump administration official citing suspected ties to terror groups. FIFA removed him from the referee list.
Somali international referee, Artan, returned to Mogadishu after being denied entry to the US for the World Cup. The Somali government engaged in diplomatic efforts to facilitate his travel, expressing gratitude for international support and vowing to protect citizens' rights abroad.
