BreakingSports
Historic Dream Cut Short: Somali Referee Omar Artan Dropped from World Cup After U.S. Entry Denial
Award-winning Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan has been removed from the 2026 FIFA World Cup officiating roster after being denied entry into the United States despite reportedly holding a valid visa. The decision has sparked disappointment across Africa, with many describing it as a major setback for a referee who was set to make history for Somalia on football’s biggest stage.