World Cup 2026: Gayton McKenzie commends US decision to refuse Omar Artan’s entry

South Africa’s Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, has triggered widespread reaction after making a forceful statement about referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan during a discussion with veteran broadcaster Robert Marawa.

McKenzie, commenting on the controversy surrounding Artan’s reported travel arrangements and eligibility issues linked to a diplomatic passport, took an uncompromising stance in the interview.

“Even if I am the President of the US, I’ll not allow Omar Artan in the country,” McKenzie said.

The remark, delivered in his trademark direct style, has quickly circulated across social media and sports circles, adding further intensity to an already sensitive debate involving the Somali official’s participation in international football duties.

Artan has recently been at the centre of scrutiny following reports questioning the validity of his travel documentation and the circumstances under which he was expected to enter the United States for officiating duties.

The situation has already drawn attention from football authorities and immigration officials, with discussions ongoing about how administrative and diplomatic protocols intersect with sporting assignments.

McKenzie’s intervention has now broadened the conversation beyond football governance, raising questions about immigration rules, diplomatic privileges, and the role of sports officials in high-level international competitions.

Despite the US decision to refuse him entry, Artan has been appointed by UEFA to officiate the Super Cup game between PSG and Aston Villa in Salzburg.