Somalia Voices Regret as World Cup Referee Artan Barred from US
Speaking publicly on the matter for the first time, the government acknowledged in an official statement that it had mounted diplomatic efforts with the relevant authorities to facilitate Artan's travel — efforts that ultimately proved unsuccessful.
"Regrettably, these efforts did not result in a favorable outcome," the Somali Foreign Ministry said in a statement.
"Somalia will continue engaging with relevant partners to seek further clarification regarding this matter and to safeguard the dignity and rights of its citizens," the statement added.
Artan touched down in the capital Mogadishu from Türkiye earlier Wednesday to a reception befitting a national hero, greeted by thousands of flag-waving supporters who had gathered at Mogadishu Stadium in an outpouring of solidarity. He was lifted onto the shoulders of jubilant fans in scenes that drew widespread attention.
Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre received Artan personally and offered a stirring tribute.
"Omar Artan has done more than unite the footballing world, he has ignited hope in every child who dares to dream beyond the horizon. Dreams may be deferred, but they are never defeated," Barre said in a statement.
Addressing reporters at a press conference following his arrival, a defiant Artan pledged to return to football's grandest stage.
"I can promise you that I will officiate at the next FIFA World Cup and I thank FIFA, the Somali people for their support," Artan said.
The Somali Football Federation hailed his journey as "a source of pride for Somalia, CECAFA (Council of East and Central Africa Football Associations) and African football."
The decision to bar Artan from entering the US drew swift and widespread condemnation from the international football community, with some fans going as far as calling for a boycott of the World Cup.
The controversy stems from a proclamation signed by US President Donald Trump on June 4, 2025, which imposes a blanket travel ban on all Somali nationals, stating: "The entry into the United States of nationals of Somalia as immigrants and nonimmigrants is hereby fully suspended."
Artan had most recently been honored as Africa's Best Referee for 2025 at the CAF Awards held in Rabat, Morocco, an event organized by the Confederation of African Football.
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