Omar Abdulkadir Artan, the first Somali referee ever selected to officiate at a FIFA World Cup, will receive his full tournament fee from FIFA despite never stepping foot on an American pitch. The decision comes after Artan was denied entry to the United States in early June 2026, turning what should have been a career-defining moment into an international incident.
Artan arrived at Miami International Airport with a valid visa and a diplomatic passport. US authorities turned him away anyway, citing “vetting concerns” and alleged associations with suspected terror members. FIFA subsequently removed him from the officiating roster for the 2026 World Cup.
From Miami airport to Mogadishu hero
Artan was named one of three African referees selected for the 2026 World Cup back in April. His visa was issued just days before his attempted arrival in early June. US authorities made the call to deny entry. FIFA, bound by the host country’s immigration decisions, had no mechanism to override it. Artan was pulled from the tournament.
Upon returning to Mogadishu, Artan received a hero’s welcome. Somali business figures stepped up with financial support, with reports of individual donations reaching $50,000 and $100,000 to back the referee personally.
