Somalia Regrets U.S. Entry Denial for CAF Referee Omar Artan

MOGADISHU – Somalia’s foreign ministry on Thursday expressed “deep regret” over the United States’ decision to deny entry to internationally acclaimed Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan, saying diplomatic efforts to facilitate his travel had failed.

In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation said Artan, named the 2025 Confederation of African Football (CAF) Referee of the Year, remains one of Somalia’s most accomplished sporting figures and a source of national pride.

“The Federal Government of Somalia takes immense pride in the achievements and contributions of Mr. Omar Abdulkadir Artan,” the ministry said, describing him as an inspiration to thousands of Somali youths whose success had elevated the country’s profile on the international stage.

The ministry said Somali authorities had engaged in diplomatic efforts with the relevant institutions in an attempt to secure Artan’s travel arrangements, but “unfortunately, those efforts did not yield the desired outcome.”