World Cup 2026: Omar Artan welcomed home as a hero

Prevented from participating in the 2026 World Cup, Omar Artan received a warm hero's welcome upon his return to Mogadishu, Somalia. The 2025 African Referee of the Year had been denied entry into the United States, where he was scheduled to officiate during the tournament.

Arriving in Miami ahead of the competition, the 34-year-old referee was held for several hours by immigration officials before being sent back to Istanbul. U.S. authorities cited security reasons, including extensive background checks, for their decision.

Upon his return, Artan expressed his disappointment but also thanked FIFA for its support. Surrounded by hundreds of fans who came to greet him, he encouraged young Somalis to keep hope alive despite the challenges. The Somali official, who had dreamed of becoming his country's first referee at a World Cup finals, vowed to return for a future edition of the tournament.

Aliou Toundé |

Editorfr

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