MOGADISHU – A World Cup referee from Somalia who was denied entry to the United States was received by a crowd of supporters and officials Wednesday as he arrived in Somalia’s capital of Mogadishu. Omar Artan expressed his determination to participate in the next World Cup and encouraged Somali youth to take pride in their country.
Artan had been set to make history as the first referee from Somalia to officiate at a World Cup, having been included in FIFA’s final list for the tournament. Esteemed as one of Africa’s top referees, he earned the title of the continent’s best male referee in 2025.
However, his journey took an unexpected turn when he was denied entry at Miami International Airport on Saturday due to “vetting concerns,” as stated by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, which did not elaborate on the specifics of these concerns. This incident led to FIFA subsequently cutting him from the tournament’s referee list.
Despite being issued a visa to travel to the United States just a week prior, processed by the Somalia Embassy in Kenya, Artan was unable to join other World Cup referees at their training base in Miami. His return to Mogadishu was marked by a hero’s welcome at the airport, where he expressed gratitude towards the Somali government, the people, and FIFA for their support during this challenging time.
“I promise you, God willing, that I will attend the next one,” he declared as hundreds of supporters waved the Somali flag. “I want the Somali public to take comfort in this and remain confident.” His sentiment resonated deeply, highlighting the pride and hope that many Somalians feel for their country, despite the challenges they face.
The decision by U.S. authorities to deny a FIFA-appointed match official entry into a World Cup host country drew international outrage, raising questions about the United States’ capacity to host such a prestigious event. Somalia, alongside nearly 40 other countries, has faced increased travel restrictions, a consequence of the Trump administration’s immigration policies.
Artan’s arrival at Aden Adde International Airport drew hundreds of supporters, government officials, and members of Somalia’s football community, all eager to welcome him home. Upon disembarking, he was enthusiastically greeted and draped in the Somali flag, a symbol of national pride and unity.
Accompanied by police officers, Artan was escorted to the airport’s VIP terminal, where he was welcomed by Somalia’s Minister of Youth and Sports, prominent officials from the Somalia Football Federation, and other dignitaries. Speaking to the press, he emphasized, “It is up to all of us to defend the Somali name. Somalia belongs to us, whether it is in a bad state or a good state. That flag belongs to us, and that passport belongs to us.”
In a nation where decades of conflict and the presence of extremist groups like al-Shabab have stifled potential, Artan’s denial was a disappointment for many. Yet, his return served as a powerful reminder of hope and the possibilities that arise when individuals pursue their dreams.
The significance of Artan’s journey to the World Cup was echoed by the Director-General of the World Health Organization, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, who remarked on social media that Artan had already achieved a monumental milestone in his profession. “You reached the summit of your profession and inspired a generation back home just by getting there,” he stated, reinforcing the idea that even in adversity, Artan’s achievements are a source of inspiration for many.
