MOGADISHU, Somalia — Somali football referee Omar Artan returned home to a warm reception after being denied entry into the United States, a development that ended his hopes of officiating at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Okay News reports that Artan, 34, had been selected by FIFA as one of the officials for the tournament and was on course to become the first Somali referee to take an on-field role at a FIFA World Cup. According to reports, he was travelling to Miami for FIFA’s mandatory pre-tournament referees’ seminar when US immigration authorities refused him entry despite his diplomatic passport and valid visa.
The official was reportedly questioned for several hours before being placed on a return flight over what authorities described as vetting concerns. The decision drew disappointment in Somalia, where Artan is widely regarded as one of the country’s most accomplished sports figures.
Hundreds of supporters, football officials and well-wishers gathered in Mogadishu to welcome him back, celebrating his achievements despite the setback. Many described his selection for the World Cup as a landmark moment for Somali football and a source of national pride.
Artan became a FIFA-accredited referee in 2018 and has steadily built a reputation across African football. In 2024, he made history as the first Somali referee to officiate at the Africa Cup of Nations and later earned recognition as the Confederation of African Football’s Best Male Referee.
Although he will not participate in the 2026 World Cup, supporters and football stakeholders say his rise from Somalia to the global stage remains an inspirational story and a significant milestone for the country’s sporting community.
