FIFA president Gianni Infantino urged fans and officials to “chill and relax” after Somali referee Omar Artan was denied a U.S. visa on the eve of the 2026 World Cup. Artan, set to become Somalia’s first World Cup official, was blocked despite believing his visa was valid. The denial sparked criticism of the U.S. travel ban and diplomatic criticism.

Infantino defended FIFA during a 66‑minute press conference, stressing the organisation cannot control government immigration decisions. He said screaming “does the opposite of finding a solution” and urged trust in FIFA’s efforts. The comment came as he also addressed Iran’s participation, confirming the team will play its group matches in the United States despite recent geopolitical tensions for the sport.

The episode highlights the friction between FIFA’s global mandate and national security policies. While Infantino promised to keep working on solutions, critics argue the ban undermines the sport’s inclusivity and jeopardises future referee appointments from restricted nations. The controversy now sits alongside lingering doubts over ticket allocations and other logistical challenges as the tournament approaches and could influence future referee recruitment policies worldwide.