Somali Referee Omar Artan Receives Hero’s Welcome in Mogadishu After World Cup Setback

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: International Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan received a warm welcome in Mogadishu on Monday after returning to the country amid widespread public support following his exclusion from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Hundreds of people, including sports officials, youth groups, community leaders, supporters and members of the public, gathered at Aden Adde International Airport and along major roads in the capital to welcome the veteran referee and express solidarity with him.

Artan had been on course to make history as the first Somali referee to officiate at a FIFA World Cup, a milestone that would have marked a significant achievement for Somalia and the country’s football fraternity.

However, those hopes were dashed after he was denied entry into the United States, one of the host nations of the 2026 World Cup. The incident resulted in his removal from the list of referees expected to participate in the tournament.

The reception held in Mogadishu reflected the high regard many Somalis have for Artan’s achievements and contributions to football officiating. Over the years, he has built a strong reputation through his work in African and international football competitions.

Those attending the welcome ceremony described Artan as a respected national figure who has represented Somalia with distinction on the international stage. They emphasized that the circumstances surrounding his exclusion from the World Cup do not diminish the accomplishments and legacy he has established throughout his refereeing career.