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FIFA offers fee support to Somali referee Omar Artan after US entry denial
Somali referee Omar Artan was denied entry to the United States after an 11-hour interrogation at Miami International Airport. FIFA has reportedly agreed to support Artan by covering his fee.
Somali referee Omar Artan was denied entry to the United States after an 11-hour interrogation at Miami International Airport. His diplomatic passport and single-entry US visa were reportedly deemed invalid.
US officials questioned Artan on suspicion of being linked to members of a terrorist organization. Artan stated that he has no connection to the Somalia-based militant group Al Shabaab and stressed that he possessed the necessary documents.
Following the interrogation, Artan was put on a plane and sent back to Somalia. FIFA intervened during this process, providing support and committing to pay the referee's fee.
Artan's goal is the 2030 World Cup
Artan described himself as a referee who simply dreams of participating in the World Cup. He said this goal is the biggest dream of his life.
Despite this setback, the 34-year-old referee stands out as a respected figure in African football. Artan was selected as the 2025 Confederation of African Football men's referee of the year.
Artan was recently appointed to the UEFA Super Cup match between Paris Saint-Germain and Aston Villa in Salzburg. He also officiated the second leg of the CAF Champions League final between Pyramids FC and Mamelodi Sundowns.
After returning to Somalia, Artan thanked
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