Somali referee denied US entry for World Cup will receive full FIFA fee

Somali soccer referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan, who was barred from entering the United States to officiate at the World Cup, will be paid his full tournament fee by FIFA. The U.S. administration stated that Artan was denied entry due to his alleged connections with "suspected members of terror organizations."

Despite being unable to participate in the World Cup, a source familiar with the matter confirmed that FIFA has committed to paying Artan's salary. Artan, recognized as Africa's referee of the year in 2025, was poised to be the first Somali to officiate at soccer's premier global event. However, U.S. Customs and Border Protection turned him back upon arrival.

“

The United States had denied Artan entry for the World Cup because of his links to "suspected members of terror organizations."

Upon returning to his home country, Artan received a hero's welcome. Adding to his recognition, the European soccer body UEFA has appointed him to officiate the UEFA Super Cup match between Paris Saint-Germain and Aston Villa scheduled for August.

“

Even though Artan will take no part in the World Cup, FIFA has committed to paying his salary.