U.S. Defends Blocking 1 FIFA Referee as 52-Official World Cup Vetting Faces Scrutiny
Updated
Updated · CBS New York · Jun 15
U.S. Defends Blocking 1 FIFA Referee as 52-Official World Cup Vetting Faces Scrutiny
3 articles · Updated · CBS New York · Jun 15
Summary
Andrew Giuliani said the U.S. was right to deny entry and deport Somali referee Omar Artan, alleging he was in contact with “some very bad people” immediately before traveling.
The administration says Miami airport vetting uncovered derogatory information, including alleged associations with suspected terror-group members, but it has released no evidence; Artan says he had completed all visa requirements.
Artan was one of only 52 referees selected by FIFA after a three-year vetting process, and UEFA has since appointed him to work the European Super Cup final.
Giuliani also said a few World Cup players have faced hours-long secondary screening but all have been admitted so far, while some Iranian officials were denied entry and Iran's base camp was moved to Los Angeles.
The comments underscore how Trump's immigration and security rules are shaping World Cup access for officials, teams and fans, with ICE involved in event security and Haiti and Iran still facing travel restrictions.