Somali referee Omar Artan received a ‘heroic’ welcome on his return to Mogadishu on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, after being denied entry into the United States, with crowds and officials gathering at the airport to receive the 34-year-old official.
Artan, who was named Africa’s Referee of the Year in 2025, arrived at Aden Adde International Airport to a warm reception led by government officials, representatives of the Somali Football Federation, fellow referees, and members of the public.
His return follows an incident in which he was denied entry at Miami International Airport on Monday, June 8, despite holding a diplomatic passport and a single-entry US visa. US immigration authorities have not publicly provided reasons for his repatriation.
The decision prevented Artan from what was expected to be a historic milestone, as he had been tipped to become the first Somali referee to officiate at a FIFA World Cup finals.
Somalia is among the countries affected by travel restrictions introduced under a list of bans linked to former US President Donald Trump.
On arrival, Artan was visibly moved by the reception and expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support from his country and football authorities.
“I’d like to thank the officials, ministers, MPs, and everyone. I want to thank my country and people for their support,” he said through a BBC translation.
“The encouragement I received here, I know I’ll get more support outside [the airport].”
He also said FIFA had remained in contact with him throughout the incident.
“Everything is pre-destined. FIFA supported me well and was in touch with me until I reached Mogadishu,” he said.
Artan is expected to attend a public event at Mogadishu Stadium later on Wednesday, where he will watch a domestic league match between Heegan and Dekadaha.
Despite the setback, he made a bold promise about his future in international refereeing.
He said he remains determined to officiate at the 2030 FIFA World Cup, insisting his journey at the top level of the sport is far from over.
