Referee’s Omar Artan returns to Somali after denied US entry

Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan has returned to Mogadishu after being denied entry into the United States, ending his dream of officiating at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The decision has generated widespread debate across the football world, as Artan was set to become the first Somali referee in history to officiate at a FIFA World Cup.

Despite holding a valid visa and being selected among FIFA’s elite match officials, U.S. authorities refused him entry, citing security and vetting concerns.

FIFA later confirmed that Artan would not participate in the tournament because all selected referees are required to attend preparations and training sessions based in the United States before the competition begins.

Artan’s exclusion is particularly significant because he has become one of Africa’s most respected referees in recent years.

Named CAF Men’s Referee of the Year in 2025, he earned international recognition through impressive performances in the CAF Champions League and Africa Cup of Nations competitions.

His selection for the World Cup was seen as a milestone not only for Somalia but also for African football as a whole.

Although Artan will not be present at the tournament, Africa remains strongly represented among the officials selected for the FIFA World Cup 2026.

African centre referees selected for the FIFA World Cup 2026 represent some of the most experienced and highly respected officials on the continent.

The list includes Dahane Beida of Mauritania, Jerson Emiliano dos Santos of Angola, Mustapha Ghorbal of Algeria, Jalal Jayed of Morocco, Amin Omar of Egypt, and Abongile Tom of South Africa.

Each of these referees has built a strong reputation through consistent performances in major CAF competitions, including the CAF Champions League, Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, and other international fixtures. 

Their selection by FIFA highlights their ability to manage high-pressure matches at the highest level of world football.

In addition to the centre referees, Africa will also be well represented by a strong group of assistant referees at the 2026 tournament.

The selected assistants include Mokrane Gourari and Abbes Akram Zerhouni from Algeria, Zakaria Brinsi and Mostafa Akarkad from Morocco, Mahmoud Abouregal and Ahmed Hossam Taha from Egypt, and Zakhele Siwela from South Africa.

These officials have also earned their places through years of dedication, discipline, and strong performances in both domestic and international competitions.

Together, these appointments reflect the growing influence, professionalism, and global recognition of African refereeing on the world stage.

While Omar Artan’s absence is a disappointment for Somalia and African football supporters, his journey remains inspirational.

Rising from a country that has faced decades of challenges, he reached the highest level of football officiating and became a symbol of determination and excellence.

His achievement in earning a World Cup appointment will continue to inspire future generations of Somali and African referees.