Somali Referee Returns Home to Hero’s Welcome After US Entry Denial
According to reports, Artan arrived at Aden Adde International Airport on Wednesday, where he was greeted by senior officials including Somalia’s Sports Minister Mohamed Abdulkadir Ali, Defense Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi, and representatives of the Somali Football Federation.
During a press briefing after his arrival, Artan expressed determination to continue his career, stating: “I can promise you that I will officiate at the next FIFA World Cup and I thank FIFA, the Somali people for their support.”
He also noted that he remained optimistic despite the setback, adding in a separate statement that he was “in a positive mood” and focused on future professional opportunities.
The Somali Football Federation described his journey as a source of national and regional pride, highlighting his role in advancing football across Somalia, the CECAFA region, and African refereeing more broadly.
Artan had been set to become the first Somali referee to officiate at a FIFA World Cup. His exclusion sparked international reactions, with some football supporters calling for a boycott of the tournament.
According to reports, he was recently recognized as Africa’s Best Referee for 2025 by the Confederation of African Football.
His situation comes in the context of a US policy issued under a June 4, 2025 proclamation that fully suspends entry for Somali nationals, stating: “The entry into the United States of nationals of Somalia as immigrants and nonimmigrants is hereby fully suspended.”
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