The 2026 FIFA World Cup was supposed to be all about the game itself. With 48 nations set to compete across the United States, Canada and Mexico, the expanded tournament is expected to be the largest World Cup in history.
The buildup should be centered around emerging stars, title contenders and the sport’s biggest stage returning to North America. Instead, much of the conversation in the days leading up to the tournament has focused on problems away from the pitch.
Former England and Arsenal forward Ian Wright did not hold back after learning that Somali referee Omar Artan had been denied entry into the United States. Artan had been set to become the first referee from Somalia to officiate at a World Cup before federal vetting concerns reportedly prevented him from entering the country.
Chris Jones-Imagn Images
“I just read that the Somalian referee has been denied entry,” Wright said. “Every few hours, it’s another story. Another story about fans denied. Players denied, officials denied. Journalists denied. Now, refs? I am laughing, but it’s not funny. It’s actually not funny.”
Wright’s comments arrived at a time when reports involving airport delays, travel complications and rising costs for visitors have become recurring topics as host cities prepare for the influx of supporters expected over the next month.
The former England international, who scored nine goals across 33 appearances for his country, also pointed to the growing financial strain being placed on supporters hoping to experience the World Cup in person.
“Something has to be said. The most expensive tickets ever. Expensive accommodation, transport through the roof. It has to be said.” He added.
Ian Wright on Omar Artan, the Somalian referee, being denied entry to the US.
Uncle Wrighty always speaking up and standing up for people. Gem ❤️ pic.twitter.com/5dQ4BAcFnV— Kafaji Comps (@KafajiComps) June 9, 2026
For years, many fans have planned and saved for the opportunity to attend soccer’s biggest event. Yet as prices continue to climb and logistical concerns remain in the spotlight, some of the excitement surrounding the tournament has been overshadowed by questions about the overall experience.
Wright Had Some Questions for The Host
FIFA later confirmed that Artan had been removed from the tournament’s official 52-man referee roster. The governing body also noted that it has no authority over immigration decisions made by host nations.
“Is this how the hosts behave, really, for the greatest game? The greatest tournament in the world. Is this how to host behave? And we’re not hearing more. Have we seen how Qatar got dragged? How we not hearing more? Is this the spirit of football? Really?” Wright continued.
The criticism was directed at a tournament that many American soccer fans have waited years to see unfold on home soil. While anticipation remains high, Wright believes the issues surrounding the event have become impossible to ignore.
“I feel for the American [soccer] fans who are desperate for this,” Wright added. “How embarrassed they must be. This is, you know what? This is a World Cup of chaos. Whoever wins this World Cup is gonna have to go through some serious, serious chaos to get this done.”
Related: FIFA-Appointed Somali Referee Denied Entry to USA 3 Days Before World Cup