Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan will receive his full FIFA World Cup payment despite being denied entry into the United States and missing the tournament.
Artan, who was set to become the first Somali referee to officiate at a FIFA World Cup, was turned back by U.S. authorities before the competition. The Trump administration said the decision was linked to alleged connections with individuals suspected of ties to terrorist organisations.
Although he will not take part in any matches at the 2026 World Cup, FIFA has reportedly committed to paying him his full tournament fee.
The 2025 African Referee of the Year returned to Somalia to a hero’s welcome after the setback, receiving widespread support from fans and officials.
In a major boost to his career, Artan has since been appointed by UEFA to officiate the UEFA Super Cup in August between Paris Saint-Germain and Aston Villa.
The appointment ensures that despite missing out on the World Cup, Artan will still take charge of one of European football’s biggest matches this year.
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