Ian Wright has launched a scathing attack on FIFA and described this summer's World Cup as the 'World Cup of chaos' after a Somali referee was denied entry to the United States. Omar Artan, who was selected as one of 52 officials for the tournament, was turned away at Miami International Airport on Saturday despite holding valid travel documents.
Somalia is among several countries whose citizens face a complete travel ban to the US, implemented in June last year. FIFA confirmed that Artan has been removed from its roster, stating that the organization is not involved in host country immigration processes.
Wright took to Instagram to express his frustration, highlighting a series of issues plaguing the tournament. 'Every few hours it's another story. Another story about fans denied, players denied, officials denied, journalists denied, now refs? Something has to be said,' the former Arsenal and England striker said.
He also criticized the high costs associated with the World Cup, calling ticket prices 'scandalous' and accommodation 'through the roof'. Wright questioned how the hosts are behaving for the greatest tournament in the world and expressed sympathy for American soccer fans who are 'desperate for this' but must feel embarrassed.
This is not the first time Wright has voiced his anger. At ITV's launch event, he fumed about the 'extortionate' prices for tickets and travel, warning that football is becoming a 'rich man's game'. He lamented that young fans today may not have access to the sport like he did in 1970.
A FIFA spokesperson said: '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.'
