- Gianni Infantino Says FIFA Cannot Override Government Decisions on Security and Immigration Matters
MEXICO CITY: FIFA President Gianni Infantino has described as “unfortunate” the case of Somali referee Omar Artan, who was denied entry into the United States ahead of the World Cup tournament.
Speaking at a press conference on the eve of the competition, Infantino said FIFA was concerned about the situation but acknowledged that the organization could not control national immigration and security decisions.
“It is unfortunate what happened to Omar, the referee from Somalia. But again, we do not control everything,” Infantino said.
“We always try to find solutions, but we are a sports organization and not an authority that can dictate decisions to governments or security agencies,” he added.
Somali Referee Turned Back at US Airport
Artan, who was named Africa’s top men’s referee last year, said he had obtained the required visa to enter the United States. However, he was stopped upon arrival at Miami International Airport and later returned to Türkiye on a flight over the weekend.
A US State Department official said Artan was denied admission because authorities believed he had links to individuals suspected of involvement with terrorist organizations, making him ineligible to enter the country.
Had he been allowed to officiate, Artan would have become the first match official from Somalia to referee at a FIFA World Cup finals.
Visa Disputes Raise Questions Over Tournament Arrangements
Infantino was also questioned about Washington’s refusal to issue visas to 15 members of Iran’s team support staff, with a reporter asking whether FIFA had lost control over aspects of the tournament.
Responding to the question, Infantino emphasized that FIFA must respect the authority of host nations over border and security matters.
He compared the situation to a future women’s World Cup hosted in another country, asking whether FIFA should be expected to decide who governments allow into their territories.
FIFA Calls for Calm Amid Security Concerns
Infantino urged the media and public to remain patient, clarifying that his remarks were not intended to suggest FIFA was ignoring such issues.
“When I say chill, I do not mean do nothing. I mean we are working,” he said.
The FIFA president stressed that security remains a priority in today’s global environment, while reaffirming that the organization continues efforts to address challenges affecting players, officials, and teams.
BY: The Times Union
