Thousands Welcome Referee Omar Artan at Mogadishu Stadium After Return to Somalia

GOOBJOOG NEWS|MOGADISHU: Thousands of people packed Mogadishu Stadium on Wednesday to welcome Somali international referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan following his return to the country.

The gathering brought together supporters, former athletes, officials and members of the public, who turned out to show solidarity with the referee after he was unable to participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup despite being selected among the match officials for the tournament.

Crowds at the stadium cheered and waved Somali flags as they paid tribute to Artan, whom many described as a national figure who has elevated Somalia’s profile on the international sporting stage.

Artan arrived in Somalia earlier in the day after being denied entry to the United States, where the 2026 FIFA World Cup is being hosted. The decision prevented him from taking part in the tournament, despite his inclusion among FIFA’s appointed referees.

The Somali referee, widely regarded as one of Africa’s leading match officials, received a hero’s welcome upon his return, with many attendees praising his achievements and contribution to the development of football in Somalia and across the continent.

His case has attracted significant attention both within Somalia and internationally. The decision to deny him entry to the United States has sparked widespread debate and drawn reactions from governments, sports organizations, public figures and football fans around the world.

Across Somalia, messages of support have continued to pour in, with many viewing Artan as a symbol of perseverance and national pride. The large turnout at Mogadishu Stadium underscored the public support he enjoys and the significance many Somalis attach to his achievements on the global stage.