Somalia deplores the refusal of entry to the United States for referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan (World Cup 2026)
By OnzeActu · · 2 min read
Somalia deplores the American decision to prevent the entry onto United States soil of its international referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan, the first Somali selected for the list of referees for the 2026 World Cup; the ministry indicates that it has carried out diplomatic efforts without success and assures of its support for the 2025 judge, elected best CAF referee.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Federal Republic of Somalia has expressed its deep regret after US authorities refused entry to the country to Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan, scheduled to officiate at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
In a press release published on the social network
Somalia claims to have taken diplomatic steps with the authorities concerned to facilitate the referee's travel, without achieving a favorable result. “Unfortunately, these efforts have not been successful,” indicates the ministry, which specifies that the government will continue to interact with its partners to obtain clarifications and “protect the dignity and rights” of its citizens.
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The press release added that Omar Abdulkadir Artan returned safely to his country and that he will continue his national and international functions “with the same dedication and professionalism” which marked his career. The ministry also thanks the countries, sports institutions and individuals who have expressed their solidarity and support.
“Welcome home, Mr. Omar Abdulkadir Artan. The people of Somalia proudly support you and celebrate your remarkable achievements,” the official statement concluded.
This affair comes as the final phase of the 2026 World Cup is being prepared in the United States, Mexico and Canada, and raises diplomatic questions around the participation of officials from third countries.