FIFA Makes Gesture to Referee Omar Artan but Fails to Fully Ease Pain of World Cup Snub
FIFA has committed to paying Omar Artan, a Somali referee, his full fee despite being denied entry to the United States and missing the World Cup. Artan, 34, was set to become the first Somali to officiate at the tournament after being selected by FIFA through an extensive process that began three years ago.
After arriving in Miami, Artan was turned away by US Customs and Border Protection due to alleged links with a terror organization, which he denied. He had obtained a diplomatic passport to circumvent the Trump administration's travel ban on Somalia.
Artan received a hero's welcome in Mogadishu and has since been appointed by UEFA to referee the 2026 Super Cup between Paris Saint-Germain and Aston Villa. UEFA stated that they want to show respect to Artan and his outstanding officiating skills.
According to reports, FIFA will pay Artan for his match assignments, with the fee potentially starting at $100,000. Referees can earn additional amounts depending on the number of matches they officiate, with daily allowances also paid to cover basic expenses.
After arriving in Miami, Artan was turned away by US Customs and Border Protection due to alleged links with a terror organization, which he denied. He had obtained a diplomatic passport to circumvent the Trump administration's travel ban on Somalia.
Artan received a hero's welcome in Mogadishu and has since been appointed by UEFA to referee the 2026 Super Cup between Paris Saint-Germain and Aston Villa. UEFA stated that they want to show respect to Artan and his outstanding officiating skills.
According to reports, FIFA will pay Artan for his match assignments, with the fee potentially starting at $100,000. Referees can earn additional amounts depending on the number of matches they officiate, with daily allowances also paid to cover basic expenses.
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