Press Release Regarding Referee Omar Cartan

The Ministry of Youth and Sports of the Federal Government of Somalia is deeply saddened by the circumstances that caused Somali international referee, Omar Cartan, to withdraw from participating in the ongoing international football tournament taking place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

A press release issued by the Ministry of Youth and Sports stated, “After it was discovered that Referee Omar Cartan faced challenges related to entry approval into the United States (Entry Denied), the Ministry, in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and the Presidency of the Federal Republic of Somalia, made diplomatic efforts and extensive negotiations with the Government of the United States and FIFA to find a swift resolution to this matter.”

The statement also noted, “Unfortunately, despite these strong efforts, it was not possible to reach a resolution. Referee Omar Cartan is a clear example of the talent, resilience, and efforts of Somali youth. His international achievements bring honor and reputation to the Somali people, and they demonstrate that the challenges and difficult circumstances in the country do not prevent Somali youth from reaching high international levels.

The Ministry of Youth and Sports reaffirms its full support for Referee Omar Cartan and will continue to support his professional development and participation in future international opportunities, and it thanks the Somali people, the sports community, and all those who have shown solidarity, encouragement, and support for Referee Omar Cartan.