US shuts its doors, his country welcomes him like a hero: Grand reception for Somali referee at the airport

A remarkable reception was held in Mogadishu for Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan, who returned to his country after facing an entry crisis in the US. The experienced referee, who reached Somalia via Istanbul, was welcomed at the airport by high-level government officials and fans.

AFRICA'S AWARD-WINNING REFEREE RETURNS HOME

Following the denial of his entry into the US, 34-year-old referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan arrived in Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia, via Istanbul and was met with great interest at Aden Adde International Airport.

Somali Minister of Sports Mohamed Abdulkadir Ali and Minister of Defense Ahmed Moalim Fiqi were also present at the welcoming ceremony. It was observed that many Somali fans were also at the airport to welcome Artan.

"I WILL OFFICIATE IN THE NEXT WORLD CUP"

Speaking to members of the press after the reception, Omar Abdulkadir Artan shared his goals for the future.

Artan stated, "I promise you that I will officiate in the next FIFA World Cup. I would like to thank FIFA and the Somali people for their support."

DENIED ENTRY TO THE US

The Somali referee had been stopped at Miami International Airport in the US state of Florida and was not permitted to enter the country.

Following this development, Artan was forced to return to Somalia via a connecting flight through Istanbul.

PREPARING TO MAKE WORLD CUP HISTORY

Omar Abdulkadir Artan is considered one of the rising referees in African football.

The experienced official was named "Referee of the Year" in 2025 by the Confederation of African Football.

Artan was also preparing to go down in history as the first Somali referee to officiate in a FIFA World Cup tournament, had he been able to participate.