Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan was denied entry to the United States for the FIFA World Cup 2026 but returned to Mogadishu to a hero’s welcome.
More than 100 supporters greeted him at Aden Adde International Airport, waving flags as he pledged: “I will be at the next World Cup and will continue to make Somalia proud.”
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Artan, CAF’s 2025 Men’s Referee of the Year, was stopped at Miami International Airport, with US officials citing alleged links to suspected terrorist members. FIFA confirmed he will not officiate at the tournament starting Thursday.
Somali officials condemned the decision, calling it unjust. Artan’s vow to return in 2030 has struck a chord with fans who see him as a symbol of resilience.
