Somali Referee Omar Artan Received Warm Welcome After U.S. Entry Denial

Referee Omar Artan, a notable figure in Somali sports, returned to Mogadishu on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, after being denied entry to the United States. A supportive crowd and officials greeted him at the airport following his departure from the World Cup referee list. Artan, recognized as one of Africa’s leading referees, expressed his ongoing commitment to reaching the next World Cup. He also encouraged Somali youth to maintain pride in their country.

Artan had been on FIFA’s final list for the tournament, poised to become the first Somali referee to officiate at a World Cup. In 2025, he earned the title of Africa’s best male referee. However, U.S. Customs and Border Protection prevented his entry at Miami International Airport due to unspecified “vetting concerns.” Despite having obtained a visa processed by the Somalia Embassy in Kenya, FIFA subsequently removed him from participating in the tournament. The U.S. is co-hosting the World Cup with Mexico and Canada, and Artan was expected to join fellow referees for training in Miami.

Upon his arrival in Mogadishu, Artan received a hero’s welcome, thanking the Somali government, its people, and FIFA for their support. Addressing the crowd, he reassured them of his determination to attend future tournaments. Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre praised Artan, stating that he had captured millions of hearts and cemented his place in history with merit-driven dedication.

The U.S. decision to deny entry to a FIFA-appointed match official in a World Cup host nation provoked global outrage and skepticism about America’s World Cup hosting capabilities. Under the Trump administration, Somalia became one of nearly 40 nations facing new travel restrictions.

Hundreds of supporters, government officials, and members of Somalia’s football community gathered at Aden Adde International Airport before Artan’s arrival. As he exited the plane, supporters waved Somali flags, draping him in the national flag. Police escorted him to the airport’s VIP terminal, where the sports minister and other dignitaries welcomed him, and he addressed the media.

Artan emphasized the importance of defending Somali national identity. He encouraged unity regardless of the country’s current state, underlining that the nation and its symbols belong to its people.

Despite the setback, many in Somalia, affected by years of conflict and threats from the al-Qaida-linked al-Shabab group, found hope and inspiration in Artan’s journey. The World Health Organization Director-General, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, highlighted Artan’s achievement, noting his inspiration to a generation at home and affirming that missing out on the pitch didn’t diminish his accomplishment.