MOGADISHU (Kaab TV) – The Somalia Olympic Committee has expressed support for Somali referee Omar Artan following reports that he was denied entry into the United States ahead of an international football tournament.
In a statement, the committee praised Omar Artan for his achievements in African and international football, describing him as one of Somalia’s most respected sports officials and a symbol of the country’s growing presence on the global sporting stage accusing that the decision was discriminative against Omar Artan and stating “Our officials deserve to represent our flag without discrimination”.
The committee said the decision preventing the referee from entering the United States was disappointing for Somali sports supporters, particularly given his recent recognition and selection for major international competitions.
Officials from the Somalia Olympic Committee called for fairness and equal treatment for athletes and sports officials representing their countries at international events, stressing that sports should remain a platform that promotes unity and cooperation among nations.
Omar Artan had recently been selected among the referees expected to officiate at this year’s FIFA World Cup tournament in the United States. However, U.S. authorities reportedly denied him entry following additional immigration and security screening procedures upon his arrival.
The incident has sparked widespread reaction among Somali sports fans, with many expressing solidarity with the referee and describing his exclusion as a setback for Somali football representation on the international stage.