Ian Wright, the former England and Arsenal striker, has strongly criticised this summer's World Cup, branding it a 'World Cup of chaos' following the denial of entry to a Somali referee. Omar Artan, who was selected as one of 52 officials for the tournament, was turned away at Miami International Airport over the weekend despite possessing valid travel documents.
Travel Ban Impacts Referee
Somalia is among several countries whose citizens face a complete travel ban to the United States, implemented in June last year. FIFA confirmed that Artan has been removed from its roster of referees for the tournament. A FIFA spokesperson stated: 'FIFA can confirm that match official Omar Abdulkadir Artan will be unable to train and officiate at the FIFA World Cup 2026 after he was denied entry into the United States. FIFA is not involved in host country immigration processes, including visa adjudications, and has been informed by authorities that Mr Artan's status will not be changed at present.'
Wright's Outburst
In a video posted on Instagram, Wright highlighted several incidents that have marred the build-up to the tournament, which is being co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. He said: 'I have just read that the Somalian referee has been denied entry. Every few hours it's another story. Another story about fans denied, players denied, officials denied, journalists denied, now refs? You know something? I'm laughing, but it's not funny. It's actually not funny, something has to be said.'
Wright also criticised the high costs associated with the tournament, adding: 'Expensive tickets, most expensive tickets ever, expensive accommodation, transport through the roof. It has to be said. Is this how the hosts behave for the greatest game? The greatest tournament in the world, is this how the hosts behave? How are we not hearing more?'
Comparisons to Qatar
Wright drew comparisons to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, which faced widespread criticism over human rights issues. He said: 'Are we not seeing Qatar got dragged? How are we not hearing more? Is this the spirit of football? Really? You know who I feel for? I feel for the American fans who are desperate for this. American soccer fans who are desperate for this and how embarrassed they must be. How embarrassing for them must this be. This is you know what this is, this is the World Cup of chaos.'
He concluded: 'Whoever wins this World Cup is going to have to go through some serious chaos to get this done. I hope we can do it. But something has to be said man. This is the World Cup.'
