World Cup 2026: concerns over referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan's visa

Africa Today at 18:26

Nouya M'toama

News Editor

Concerns are mounting over Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan, who is still waiting to obtain his visa to enter the United States just days before the start of the tournament.

This administrative delay is causing serious concern in the football world, as all other African officials have already arrived in the US to prepare for the tournament. As the first Somali referee ever selected for a men's World Cup, Omar Abdulkadir Artan now sees his participation in jeopardy, despite his exemplary career.

A worrying situation just days before the tournament

Multiple bodies, including FIFA and CAF, are being urged to step in quickly to resolve what many observers view as an unfair situation. The Somali referee, regarded as one of the continent’s best, is still hoping to secure his visa in time to honor his selection and represent Africa at the highest level.

This case reignites the debate over the visa procedures imposed on international sports officials, especially with a global event watched by billions of viewers fast approaching.