World Cup 2026: Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan finally receives his visa

After administrative setbacks, he was the last African official awaiting his visa

World Today at 09:33

A wave of relief has swept over Omar Abdulkadir Artan, who had been stranded until now due to visa issues, as he will finally be able to travel and officiate at the World Cup finals kicking off June 1 in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Abdulkadir Artan received his visa on Thursday morning, according to Ghanaian journalist Micky Junior. After confirming the news on his social media accounts, the Somali referee can now join his fellow African officials, who arrived in the United States days earlier.

Just woke up to some wonderful news. ❤️

Omar Abdulkadir Artan has received his visa this morning and is now cleared to travel to the USA for the World Cup.

This is a reminder of what can happen when people come together. The support, messages and attention from across social… pic.twitter.com/WY6XI29K8J
— Micky Jnr (@MickyJnr__) June 4, 2026

Wearing the FIFA badge since 2018, he quickly established himself at the pinnacle of continental refereeing, taking charge of major clashes in the Africa Cup of Nations and CAF Champions League. His presence in the United States, Mexico, and Canada marks a historic moment for an entire nation, as Omar Abdulkadir Artan becomes the first Somali referee to officiate in the World Cup finals.