Omar Artan Returns Home After US Visa Ban

Fri Jul 10 2026 16:41:11 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Somalia’s rising football referee, banned from entering the US, returns home amid a hero's welcome and a pledge to keep chasing his World Cup dreams.

Omar Artan, a 34‑year‑old Somali referee who earned CAF’s men’s referee of the year award, was denied entry into the United States where he had travelled to brief for the 2030 World Cup. After holding a diplomatic passport and a single‑entry visa, US immigration officials barred him from entering Miami International Airport, sending him back to Somalia. He was greeted with flags, homemade hats and social media fans at Aden Adde International Airport, where government officials, the Somali Football Federation and fellow referees celebrated his return. Artan vowed to continue his journey toward officiating at a World Cup and urged Somali youth to stay hopeful and proud of their nation.

Omar Artan Returns Home After US Visa Ban

The 34‑year‑old Somali referee, slated to become the first Somali to officiate at a World Cup, was denied entry to the United States at Miami International Airport despite holding a diplomatic passport and a single‑entry visa.

Hero’s Welcome at Mogadishu Airport

Hundreds gathered to greet him, waving flags and wearing homemade hats emblazoned with his likeness. Social media stars took photos and streamed the ceremony live, while government officials and members of the Somali Football Federation stood beside him as he stepped onto the tarmac.

Despite the jubilant reception, a undercurrent of anger was evident as the crowd expressed frustration over the US decision to bar him from entering the country, an issue that has stoked debate about sports diplomacy and travel restrictions.

Artan’s Determined Response

Artan spoke to the press, thanking officials, ministers and ordinary citizens for their support. He declared his commitment to continue training and to aim for a place on the 2030 World Cup officiating squad, stating that the encouragement he received in Somalia would carry him forward.

He urged Somali youth to keep hope alive, reminding them that the nation’s flag and passport belong to them and that neither demoralise should hinder the path forward.

What Comes Next?

A public event is scheduled for the afternoon at Mogadishu Stadium, where Artan will watch a match between Heegan and Dekadaha. The atmosphere is expected to mirror the grand applause he received at the airport, reaffirming his status as a national hero.