Video: Omar Artan receives hero’s welcome in Somalia after denied entry to US

Somali referee Omar Artan received a warm welcome upon his return to Somalia after being denied entry into the United States ahead of the FIFA World Cup.
Videos shared on social media showed supporters and well-wishers gathering at Mogadishu’s main airport to receive the match official, applauding and cheering as he arrived home.

Somali referee Omar Artan received a warm welcome as he returned back to Mogadishu airport in Somalia after he was turned away by US authorities ahead of the World Cup… pic.twitter.com/FVOodOIFLO — george (@StokeyyG2) June 10, 2026

Omar Artan had been scheduled to travel to the United States as part of preparations for the World Cup but was reportedl...