Fifa to pay Somali referee Artan full World Cup fee

Fifa to pay Somali referee Artan – Omar Artan, a Somali referee who had secured a spot to officiate at the World Cup, was denied entry into the United States after a 11-hour interrogation at Miami International Airport. Despite this setback, the International Federation of Association Football (Fifa) has confirmed that he will still receive the full payment for his participation in the tournament. Artan’s diplomatic passport and single-entry US visa were rejected by immigration authorities, raising questions about the decision and its implications for his career.

The US government cited concerns about Artan’s alleged ties to “suspected members of terror organisations” as the reason for barring his entry. A senior official stated that the visa denial was based on his association with Al Shabab, a militant group operating in Somalia. However, Artan claimed during the questioning that he had no knowledge of the organisation’s activities. “I had the right papers and everything,” he said. “I had the right visa. I’m just simply a referee who’s trying to live his dream, the biggest dream of my life, to come to the World Cup.”

“I had the right papers and everything. I had the right visa. I’m just simply a referee who’s trying to live his dream, the biggest dream of my life, to come to the World Cup.”

After being turned back on a flight to Turkey, Artan received support from Fifa officials in Istanbul before returning to his home country, Mogadishu. While he will not be part of the World Cup, the federation has pledged to cover his salary as per the agreed terms. Referees are typically paid after completing their assignments, but Fifa’s commitment ensures Artan will still be compensated for his role in the event.

Artan, who turned 34 this year, is already making waves in international football. He was named the Confederation of African Football (Caf) men’s referee of the year for 2025, a testament to his growing reputation. Despite the visa rejection, he has been invited to referee the Uefa Super Cup between Paris St-Germain and Aston Villa in Salzburg, Austria, on 12 August. This opportunity marks a significant step in his professional journey.

Artan’s 2025 has been a milestone year, with notable appearances in high-profile matches. He officiated the second leg of the African Champions League final between Pyramids FC and Mamelodi Sundowns, which Pyramids won. Additionally, he took charge of three games at the U-20 World Cup in Chile, including the third-place play-off. His performance at the Africa Cup of Nations in 2024 and 2025 has solidified his status as one of the most promising officials in the region.

Barred from US: What happened to Artan?

Artan’s exclusion from the United States sparked discussions about visa restrictions and their impact on athletes and officials. His case highlights the challenges faced by individuals from countries with a history of militant activity, even when their intentions are purely professional. The incident also drew attention to the broader issue of travel bans and how they affect participation in global sporting events.

Despite the denial, Artan expressed gratitude for the support he received from Fifa and his homeland. “My people and my country have been there for me,” he said after his return to Somalia. This sentiment underscores the personal and national pride he associates with his role as a referee. His determination to officiate at the 2030 World Cup remains unchanged, as he vows to overcome this obstacle and achieve his long-term goal.

Visa rejection and the FIFA payment policy

The visa decision has raised questions about the criteria used by US immigration authorities for high-profile international participants. Referees, like other sports officials, often rely on diplomatic credentials or temporary visas to attend major events. Artan’s case demonstrates how such decisions can disrupt careers, even when the individual has met all formal requirements.

Fifa’s policy of paying referees after the tournament concludes means that Artan will still benefit from his selection. The exact amount of the payment is not disclosed publicly, but officials have confirmed that it will cover his expenses and salary for the World Cup. This approach ensures fairness, as the fee is determined based on the tournament’s budget and the referee’s performance, rather than their ability to secure entry into the host country.

Artan’s journey to the World Cup

Artan’s path to the World Cup was marked by years of dedication and excellence. Since joining Fifa in 2018, he has steadily built his reputation, earning recognition for his technical skills and consistency in officiating. His success at the Africa Cup of Nations in 2024 and 2025, coupled with his performance in the U-20 World Cup, has positioned him as a key figure in African football.

The incident in the US, however, has cast a shadow over his aspirations. Artan’s return to Somalia has been a temporary setback, but he remains focused on future opportunities. “I will not let this delay my progress,” he said. “The World Cup is a dream that I have worked for, and I will continue to strive for it.” His resolve to participate in the 2030 World Cup reflects his belief in the importance of global exposure for African referees.

Artan’s story has also resonated with fans and stakeholders in football. Many have expressed concern over the visa restrictions and their effect on talent from regions with political complexities. The phrase “A World Cup for them not us” has been used by some supporters to highlight the perceived bias in the decision, emphasizing the need for more inclusive policies in international sports events.

As Artan prepares for upcoming matches, his experience serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by referees in navigating bureaucratic hurdles. While the US entry was denied, his contributions to the sport continue to be recognized, both locally and internationally. The FIFA payment ensures that his hard work and commitment are rewarded, even if the World Cup remains a distant dream for now.

World Cup fixtures and fan reactions

The World Cup, one of the most anticipated events in global football, has been the focus of widespread attention. Fixtures and group standings have been released, with anticipation building for the tournament’s start. However, fan reactions have been mixed, with some expressing frustration over visa restrictions that have affected the participation of officials like Artan.

Artan’s case has sparked debates about the fairness of travel bans and their impact on sports. While the US government’s decision was based on security concerns, critics argue that it may have been overly cautious. Fans have called for greater transparency in the visa process, ensuring that individuals like Artan are not unfairly excluded from their chance to contribute to the sport at the highest level.

For now, Artan is back in Somalia, but his journey is far from over. With a proven track record and a clear vision for the future, he remains a vital part of the African football landscape. His story continues to inspire others, demonstrating the passion and perseverance required to achieve success on the global stage.