Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan was denied entry to the United States, where he had hoped to participate in the World Cup. Upon returning to Mogadishu on June 10, 2026, he received a hero’s welcome. Government officials greeted him with flowers, and supporters wrapped him in the Somali flag.

Thousands gathered in a stadium to celebrate Artan, not for a soccer match, but to honor him. He was lifted onto shoulders, symbolizing national pride in a country that often faces international criticism. Artan expressed gratitude for the support from FIFA and stated his resolve to attend the next World Cup, urging young people in Somalia to pursue their dreams.

During his attempted entry into the U.S., Artan was stopped by U.S. Customs and Border Protection at Miami International Airport. Despite possessing a diplomatic passport and valid visa, Andrew Giuliani, head of the White House World Cup task force, justified the decision by stating that anyone communicating with individuals planning harm against the U.S. would not be permitted entry.

Anonymous Trump administration sources claimed Artan was linked to suspected terror organization members. NPR requested Artan’s comment but hasn’t received a response yet. A FIFA spokesperson confirmed that Artan will not be able to train at the tournament, which is starting in Mexico City and being held across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.

The U.S. has been a crucial ally of Somalia in combating the militant group Al-Shabaab. However, the accusations against Artan angered many Somali citizens. Somali parliament member Ilham Gasser questioned why these concerns were not raised during the visa process if the allegations were serious.

Somalia was previously one of 12 countries affected by a U.S. travel ban. President Trump has often criticized Somalia, referring to it as a dangerous and undesirable country. Despite this setback, Artan’s return has sparked national pride as Somalia celebrates his achievements on the global stage.