MOGADISHU — Somalia’s federal government on Wednesday expressed deep regret over the United States’ decision to deny entry to international referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan, who had been selected to officiate at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation said Somali authorities had engaged in diplomatic efforts with U.S. counterparts to facilitate Artan’s travel, but those efforts did not succeed.
“The Government of Somalia remains immensely proud of Mr. Artan’s achievements and contributions,” the ministry said, adding that his success “continues to inspire Somali youth and demonstrates that talent, commitment, and perseverance can lead to international excellence.”
The ministry described Artan, named CAF Male Referee of the Year in 2025, as one of Somalia’s most accomplished sports figures and a source of national pride.
It also thanked countries, institutions, sporting bodies and individuals who expressed solidarity following his exclusion.
“The Federal Republic of Somalia will continue engaging with relevant partners to seek further clarification and to safeguard the dignity and rights of its citizens,” the statement said, while welcoming Artan back home and praising his achievements.
Artan arrived in Mogadishu on Wednesday, where he was received by government officials, football representatives and supporters waving Somali flags.
He had been set to become the first Somali referee to officiate at a FIFA World Cup after being named on FIFA’s final list of match officials for the tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Speaking after his arrival, Artan described the decision to deny him entry as unfortunate, while thanking FIFA for its support.
“What happened has happened and it was unfortunate. I am grateful for the support FIFA gave me,” he said, urging Somalis to remain confident in their country.
“Somalia is ours, whether things are good or bad. I want to tell our youth not to lose hope in our country,” he added. “I am now in my country, and there is no other place I want to be.”
Artan said he remained hopeful about future opportunities.
“I promise you, God willing, that I will attend the next one,” he said to cheering supporters at the airport. “I want the Somali public to take comfort in this and remain confident.”
The U.S. administration said on Tuesday that Artan was denied entry over alleged links to “suspected members of terrorist organizations,” but did not provide detailed evidence.
His exclusion has sparked anger and disappointment in Somalia, where his selection for the World Cup had been widely celebrated as a historic milestone for Somali football and a rare moment of international recognition.
