Executive Director of the White House Task Force on the FIFA World Cup Andrew Giuliani has publicly defended the United States' decision to deny entry to Somali referee Omar Artan and deport him from the country.
Speaking in a brief interview with Sky News, Giuliani cited security concerns, insisting that individuals linked to "bad actors" would not be allowed into the US.
"There are some things we cannot talk about, but one thing is for sure: anybody communicating with bad actors to plan harm against the US is not going to be granted entry," he said.
"We want to ensure the safety of all US citizens, permanent residents, and everyone legally travelling in the United States."
Why was top referee denied entry to the U.S. for the World Cup?
@jamesmatthewssky spoke to Andrew Giuliani, the White House's top official for the World Cup, with less than 48 hours to go until the tournament kicks off pic.twitter.com/MgEUMIwTOM— Sky News (@SkyNews) June 10, 2026
Giuliani said he supported the decision due to vetting concerns surrounding the 34-year-old referee, alleging possible links to individuals associated with terrorist groups, including the outlawed Al-Shabaab, which has long been linked to Al-Qaeda.
The allegations have sparked a global debate on race, perceived discrimination and national security.
Among those who weighed in was former Somali President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo.
"The circumstances surrounding this event remind the Somali people that whatever goes wrong in governance and politics has a direct impact on the structure of our nation and our valuable individuals," he said.
Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre also expressed support for Artan.
"I told our Somali referee Omar Artan that while his World Cup officiating dream may have been delayed, it has never been diminished. Long before a ball is kicked, he has already won the hearts of millions and secured his place in history," Barre said.
The controversy erupted days ago when Artan was denied entry into the United States and deported back to Somalia, where he received a hero's welcome upon arrival.
The Somali Football Federation also rallied behind the referee, stating, "Omar Artan is a respected international referee who has represented Somalia with integrity and distinction on the global stage."