Somalia’s Ministry of Youth and Sports has expressed regret over circumstances that prevented international referee Omar Artan from participating in the 2026 FIFA World Cup being hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, after he was reportedly denied entry into the United States.
The ministry said it had worked alongside other government institutions to resolve the matter after learning that Artan had encountered difficulties upon arrival in the United States.
Despite diplomatic engagement and discussions involving both Somali and international stakeholders, the issue remained unresolved, resulting in the referee missing the tournament assignment.
In a statement released by the Ministry of Youth and Sports, officials said the government had moved quickly to address the situation once it became aware of the entry problems facing the Somali referee.
“After it became known that Referee Omar Artan had encountered difficulties related to gaining entry into the United States and was denied entry, the Ministry, in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and the Presidency of the Federal Republic of Somalia, undertook diplomatic efforts and extensive discussions with the United States government and FIFA in an attempt to find an urgent solution to the matter. Unfortunately, despite these significant efforts, a resolution could not be reached,” the ministry said.
The case has attracted attention across Somalia’s sporting community, where Artan is regarded as one of the country’s leading football officials. His selection for international tournaments has been viewed by many as evidence of Somalia’s growing presence in world football officiating.
Artan has officiated matches under FIFA and the Confederation of African Football and has represented Somalia at several major competitions. His appointments on the international stage have made him one of the most recognised Somali referees in recent years.
In its statement, the Ministry of Youth and Sports highlighted Artan’s journey and contribution to the sport, describing him as an example of what Somali youth can achieve despite challenges facing the country.
“Referee Artan is a clear example of the talent, resilience, and dedication of Somali youth. His international achievements are a source of pride and honour for the Somali people and demonstrate that the challenges and difficult circumstances facing the country have not prevented Somali youth from reaching the highest levels of international success,” the ministry said.
The ministry also reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Artan’s career and future participation in international competitions.
Officials said the government would continue working to ensure that Somali athletes, referees and sports professionals receive support as they pursue opportunities beyond the country’s borders.
“The Ministry once again reaffirms its full support for Referee Artan and will continue to support his professional development and participation in future international opportunities,” the statement added.
The ministry also thanked members of the public, sports organisations, and supporters who expressed solidarity with the referee following reports that he had been unable to take up his assignment.
News of Artan’s absence from the tournament sparked reactions from football fans and sports figures, many of whom voiced support for the referee and called for greater efforts to ensure that Somali sports professionals can participate in international events without administrative obstacles.
While the ministry did not provide further details regarding the specific reasons behind the US entry denial, it emphasised that extensive efforts had been made to resolve the matter before a final outcome was reached.
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