MOGADISHU, Somalia — FIFA-listed Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan returned to Mogadishu after being denied U.S. entry for the FIFA Club World Cup in Miami.
He arrived to a hero’s welcome at Aden Adde International Airport after being turned back from the United States and routed through Turkey before reaching Somalia.
Supporters, officials, lawmakers, and football fans gathered in large numbers to greet him, celebrating his return after the high-profile international officiating setback.
Artan appeared emotional as he addressed the crowd, thanking officials, ministers, MPs, and citizens for their overwhelming support and encouragement upon his arrival.
“I want to thank my country and people for their support,” he said, noting continued encouragement despite the disappointment and disrupted international assignment.
His absence from the FIFA Club World Cup followed a visa denial, preventing him from officiating matches after being selected for the prestigious tournament in Miami.
The denial drew international attention and criticism over visa restrictions affecting global sports participants ahead of upcoming major FIFA competitions in the United States.
Former England international Ian Wright criticized the situation, saying restrictions impacted journalists, staff, and fans attending international football tournaments globally.
He described the situation as a “World Cup of chaos,” warning that similar issues could affect inclusivity and fairness at upcoming global sporting events.
Despite the setback, Artan maintained optimism, stating that FIFA remained in contact with him throughout his journey and supported him until his return to Somalia.
“I promise you I’ll be officiating in the next World Cup,” he told supporters, reaffirming his commitment to reach football’s highest refereeing stage.
Crowds at the airport responded with cheers, Somali flags, and chants, turning his return into a national moment of pride and collective encouragement.
Artan later met with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, who praised his achievements and expressed solidarity following his denied entry to the United States.
He also met Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre, who expressed regret over the visa issue and affirmed government support for Artan.
Barre said Artan continues to represent Somalia, Africa, FIFA, and the global football community despite the disrupted tournament participation.
Artan’s rise has been widely celebrated in Somalia, symbolizing progress in international sports representation despite challenges faced by the country’s football infrastructure.
Addressing youth, he urged perseverance and national unity, saying Somalia’s flag and identity must be defended regardless of setbacks or international obstacles.
“We all belong to Somalia whether it’s good or bad,” he said, encouraging young people to remain motivated and proud of their national identity.
He added that the setback would not deter his ambitions, expressing determination to continue his refereeing career on the global football stage.
“I want to continue my journey from here,” he said, urging Somali youth to pursue their goals with resilience and dedication.
Artan left the airport surrounded by supporters, turning disappointment into celebration while reinforcing his message of perseverance and national pride.
His journey ended with renewed determination, as he vowed that future World Cup opportunities would include him among the world’s elite referees.
Reported by ABdirisak Mohamud Turyare from Mogadishu, Somalia