What specific reasons did US authorities cite for denying the referee entry?

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US Authorities Cited Alleged Association with Suspected Terror Organisations for Referee's Entry Denial

US immigration authorities cited an alleged association with suspected members of terror organisations as the specific reason for denying Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan entry into the United States. Artan, who had been selected to officiate at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, was detained and questioned for 11 hours at Miami International Airport before his diplomatic passport and single-entry US visa were ultimately rejected.
Alleged Ties to Terrorist Groups

The official reason provided by a US government official for denying Artan entry was an alleged "association with suspected members of terror organisations." This formed the basis of the US authorities' decision to refuse his admission into the country.
Questioning on Al-Shabaab Links

During his 11-hour detention, Artan stated that he was questioned by border officials regarding alleged links to the Somali militant group Al-Shabaab. He explicitly denied any knowledge of or association with the organisation.
Rejection of Travel Documents

Following the extensive questioning, both Artan's diplomatic passport and his single-entry US visa were rejected by US immigration officials. This action prevented him from entering the United States for his officiating duties at the World Cup.

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What specific reasons did US authorities cite for denying the referee entry?

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