Somalian referee Omar Artan has vowed to return stronger and secure another opportunity to officiate at the FIFA World Cup after being denied entry into the United States ahead of the tournament.
Artan received a hero’s welcome upon his return to Mogadishu on Wednesday, with more than 100 supporters gathering at the city’s main airport to celebrate and show solidarity. Waving Somali flags and chanting in support, the crowd greeted the award-winning referee as he arrived on a Turkish Airlines flight.
Speaking to journalists, Artan expressed determination to overcome the setback and continue representing his country on the global stage.
“I will be at the next World Cup and will continue to make Somalia proud. Despite what has happened, I remain motivated and focused,” he said.
His exclusion from the tournament has sparked widespread disappointment and criticism across Somalia, where his selection as one of the World Cup match officials had been viewed as a major national achievement.
Among those who welcomed him home was government official Mohamed Said, who described the decision as deeply upsetting to many Somalis.
Artan, who was named the Confederation of African Football’s Referee of the Year in 2025, was reportedly denied entry upon arriving at Miami International Airport on Saturday.
According to a U.S. State Department official, the decision was based on concerns that Artan was allegedly linked to individuals suspected of involvement with terrorist organisations, making him ineligible for admission under U.S. immigration rules.
Following the development, FIFA confirmed that Artan would no longer participate as one of the officials for the World Cup, which begins this week across Canada, Mexico and the United States.
Artan’s appointment to the 52-member team of referees had previously been celebrated as a historic accomplishment for Somalia. Earlier this year, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud described him as an inspiration to young Somalis and a symbol of the country’s growing presence in international sports.
Despite the disappointment, Artan’s reception in Mogadishu highlighted the strong support he continues to enjoy at home as he looks ahead to future opportunities on football’s biggest stage.
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