How Somali referee is turning 2026 World Cup finals disappointment into new ambition
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Reading Time: 2min | Tue. 07.07.26. | 07:55
The Somali official, who was unable to officiate at this year's World Cup after being denied entry to the United States, says the disappointment has strengthened rather than diminished his resolve to remain among Africa's elite referees
Missing out on the 2026 World Cup may have been a painful setback, but FIFA referee Omar Artan says it has only fuelled his desire to officiate at football's biggest stage, with the 2030 tournament now firmly in his sights.
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The Somali official, who was unable to officiate at this year's World Cup after being denied entry to the United States of America, says the disappointment has strengthened rather than diminished his resolve to remain among Africa's elite referees.
Artan was speaking during a recognition ceremony held at BBS Mall in Nairobi's Eastleigh area, where he received a warm welcome from members of the Somali community, football stakeholders and government leaders
The event, organised by telecommunications firm Somtel, came after the company unveiled Artan as its brand ambassador ahead of the 2026 World Cupm
Reflecting on his journey, Artan said Kenya has become like a second home because of the close working relationship he has built with Kenyan assistant referees over the years.
"For me, it's fantastic, especially football in Kenya. I have always worked with Kenyan assistant referees over the last three or four years, and now I feel like I am at home," said Artan.
Among those who attended the ceremony were Football Kenya Federation (FKF) President Hussein Mohammed, Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale and Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi, all of whom praised Artan's remarkable journey from Somalia to becoming one of FIFA's trusted referees.
Duale expressed confidence that missing out on the 2026 World Cup would only be a temporary setback, backing the referee to achieve his dream when Morocco, Portugal and Spain host the next edition in 2030.
"There was a small turbulence, but I am sure, at the next FIFA World Cup in Morocco, Portugal and Spain, Omar will be there. Africa will be proud, Kenya will be proud and Somalia will be proud," said Duale.
Artan has enjoyed a meteoric rise in recent years, earning appointments to some of Africa's biggest matches before being crowned CAF Men's Referee of the Year in 2025.
The award cemented his place among the continent's finest officials and inspired many aspiring referees across the region.
Ironically, Artan's recognition in Nairobi came at a time when referees officiating in FKF league structures are still waiting to be paid their outstanding dues from last season.