Chicago: Arab and Muslim community leaders in the United States have accused US border authorities and FIFA officials of targeting players, referees, and fans from Arab and Muslim countries during World Cup-related travel and entry processes. They say repeated visa denials, airport detentions, and screening practices are blocking fair participation.
Community representatives say restrictions began even before the tournament, with several athletes and officials from Arab and Muslim nations denied entry into the United States. They argue these actions damage the spirit of global sport and raise questions over equal treatment.
A major case involved Somali referee Omar Artan, who was stopped at Miami International Airport and denied entry despite being named 2025 Confederation of African Football Men’s Referee of the Year. He was later removed from the World Cup officials’ list after FIFA did not challenge the decision.
Arab America Foundation president Warren David said the situation undermines the purpose of international sport. He said visa refusals and airport restrictions prevent athletes and fans from taking part in global events and weaken trust in tournament fairness.
American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee president Jenin Younes reported multiple cases of Arab and African participants held for long questioning sessions or denied entry despite valid documents. She said the pattern raises concerns about equal rights and civil liberties.
Hassan Nijem, from the American Arab Chamber of Commerce in Illinois, said the treatment contradicts the purpose of hosting a World Cup. He pointed to past tournaments, including Qatar 2022, where participants faced no such barriers.
Reports from media producers and community radio outlets also describe growing frustration among families in US cities, including Dearborn, where concerns over visa policies and entry checks continue to rise.
The controversy has also triggered online calls for a boycott of the World Cup, with critics demanding FIFA take public action before tensions increase further.
