MOGADISHU — Somali international referee Omar Abdulqadir Artan has been selected to officiate at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, becoming the first Somali in history to serve as a referee at football’s most prestigious tournament.
His inclusion on FIFA’s official list for the tournament—set to be hosted jointly by the United States, Canada, and Mexico—marks a landmark achievement for Somali football and a significant step forward for the country’s presence on the global sporting stage.
Somalia’s Ministry of Youth and Sports welcomed the announcement, describing it as a milestone that strengthens the nation’s international sporting reputation. Artan responded with a brief message of gratitude, writing “Alhamdulillah” on his Facebook page.
The President of the Somali Football Federation, Ali Abdi Mohamed (Ali Shiino), also praised the achievement, calling it a moment of national pride and a source of inspiration for young Somalis aspiring to reach international levels in sport.
Artan’s appointment follows a series of historic accomplishments. In 2025, he became the first Somali to officiate a CAF continental final, refereed at the Africa Cup of Nations, and was named CAF’s Best Male Referee of the Year—unprecedented milestones in Somali sports history.
Born in Mogadishu during the civil war, Artan rose through local leagues despite limited resources and decades of disruption in Somalia’s football system. His dedication earned him a place on FIFA’s international referees list in 2018, positioning him among the few Somali professionals competing at the highest levels of global sport.
His journey is widely seen as a symbol of resilience and progress, reflecting Somalia’s gradual re-emergence in international football. For Somali communities worldwide—particularly in the United States—his appointment represents not only sporting excellence but also a powerful moment of representation and pride on the global stage.
