MOGADISHU, SOMALIA – Somalia’s World Cup referee, Omar Abdulkadir Artan, received a hero’s welcome at a stadium in Mogadishu on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, as cheering crowds waving Somali flags gathered to celebrate his return home after being denied entry to the United States.
Artan, who was named Africa’s Referee of the Year in 2025, had been set to become the first Somali official to referee at a FIFA World Cup. However, his participation was halted after U.S. authorities denied him entry, preventing him from travelling to the tournament.
The warm reception in Mogadishu reflected the disappointment felt across Somalia, where many viewed Artan’s appointment as a historic achievement for the nation and a symbol of progress for Somali sport on the international stage.
In a statement, Somalia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation said it “deeply regrets” the United States’ decision to deny Artan entry despite diplomatic efforts to support his travel.
The ministry described Artan as the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Referee of the Year for 2025 and one of Somalia’s most accomplished sporting figures, adding that his achievements are a source of “immense national pride.”
It further noted that Artan’s success continues to inspire young Somalis and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to engaging with relevant partners to seek further clarification on the matter while safeguarding the rights and dignity of its citizens.
FIFA said it was not involved in host-country immigration decisions and had been informed that Artan’s immigration status would not change. As a result, he was unable to participate in training programmes or officiate at the tournament co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada.
Despite the setback, many Somalis have hailed Artan’s accomplishments as a landmark moment for the country’s sporting community, with supporters gathering to celebrate a referee whose journey has inspired a new generation of athletes and officials.
Source: Reuters
