The World Cup begins this week, but the Trump administration is already creating complications. According to BBC Sport, Somali referee Omar Artan was denied entry to the United States ahead of the tournament, which starts on Thursday. Artan was scheduled to be one of 52 FIFA referees for the event, running until July 19, and was reportedly turned away at Miami airport despite holding a valid visa.
Issues for Players and Staff
Artan is not alone in facing entry problems. Aymen Hussein, a player for the Iraqi national team, was detained for nearly seven hours at Chicago's O'Hare airport, as reported by Reuters. Additionally, an Iraqi team photographer was refused entry outright. Iranian players received US visas only at the last minute, while some team staff have not received visas at all. Fans hoping to attend World Cup games in the US, especially those from African countries, have also encountered difficulties securing visas.
Trump Administration's Role
Donald Trump's second administration has prioritized hostility toward immigrants, particularly non-white individuals. Over the past six months, the US has admitted only white South Africans as refugees, according to Mother Jones. In 2025, the administration imposed a sweeping travel ban covering 39 countries, including Somalia, Artan's home country, and four World Cup participants: Haiti, Iran, Senegal, and Ivory Coast. Concerns about potential ICE operations around the World Cup have also increased anxiety for fans, as reported by the Washington Post.
Other Sporting Events Affected
The World Cup is not the only sporting event impacted by Trump. The president is in New York City for Game 3 of the NBA Finals between the New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs, and his attendance is disrupting festivities in Manhattan.
