Omar Artan, Somalia’s most recognized football referee, has been removed from FIFA’s World Cup 2026 officiating schedule after the United States denied him entry into the country. The decision came after travel complications made it impossible for him to attend FIFA-related activities, and the football world took notice quickly. The Somali world cup referee story spread fast, especially across African and Middle Eastern football communities where Omar Artan’s World Cup appointment had already been celebrated as a genuine milestone. Reactions ranged from disappointment to outright frustration and the broader question…
Read MoreSomali World Cup Referee Dropped After US Entry Denial Ahead of FIFA Events
