World Cup 2026: Canada opens its doors to Omar Abdulkadir Artan

World Cup 2026 Today at 17:53

Nafongo TRAORE

News Editor

Good news for Omar Abdulkadir Artan? Canada has confirmed that the Somali referee, who was denied entry to the United States, is welcome to officiate matches in Vancouver during the 2026 World Cup.

A last-minute and unexpected opportunity may have just opened up for Omar Abdulkadir Artan. He was deported upon arrival in the United States on June 8, but now the Somali referee will be able to officiate matches on Canadian soil.

It remains to be seen whether FIFA will approve this option. The global governing body had previously stated that Africa's top referee in 2025 could not train or officiate at the World Cup due to a decision by US immigration authorities.

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