Somalian referee Omar Artan was welcomed home as a hero on Wednesday after being denied the opportunity to officiate at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The 34-year-old official had been on course to make history as the first Somali referee selected to officiate at football’s biggest tournament. However, his hopes of achieving the milestone were dashed after he was reportedly refused entry ahead of the competition.
Despite the disappointment, Artan received a warm and emotional reception upon his arrival in Somalia, where supporters, football enthusiasts and well-wishers gathered to celebrate his accomplishments and contribution to the sport.
Photos and videos shared on social media showed jubilant crowds greeting the referee, whose journey to the World Cup had become a source of inspiration for many across the country.
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Although he was unable to take charge of matches at the tournament, Artan’s selection among the World Cup’s match officials remains a landmark achievement for Somalia and a testament to his years of dedication to refereeing.
Many supporters described his return as a moment of national pride, praising him for breaking barriers and representing Somalia on the international stage despite the setback.
The circumstances surrounding the reported denial of entry have not been officially explained. However, Artan’s homecoming underscored the admiration and respect he continues to command among Somalis, who celebrated him as a pioneer whose achievement has opened new doors for future generations of referees.