Somali Referee Omar Artan Reportedly Receives Good News After Missing FIFA World Cup
When the world's biggest soccer tournament rolls around, referees usually fade into the background. But not for Omar Abdulkadir Artan, who continues to stay in the spotlight despite missing the FIFA World Cup.
Artan, widely regarded as one of Africa's top match officials, had traveled to Miami, Florida, to take part in a pre-tournament training camp with fellow referees selected for the World Cup. He was among the 52 officials chosen by FIFA and was set to become the first Somali referee ever to officiate at the tournament.
Now, despite missing out on taking part in the World Cup, Artan received some news that could lighten his mood. According to the BBC, FIFA has committed to paying the Somali referee his full World Cup tournament fee, even though he will not officiate a single game.
Somali referee Omar Artan, who was denied entry to the United States to officiate at the World Cup, will receive his full tournament fee.
— Match of the Day (@BBCMOTD) June 14, 2026
Sources told BBC Sport that even though Artan will take no part in the World Cup, Fifa has committed to paying his salary.
Referees do not… pic.twitter.com/LCxrTHxuBF
Artan was denied entry into the United States, preventing him from taking part in the competition despite his official selection. While his absence drew controversy within the soccer world, it escalated further when U.S. President Donald Trump's administration cited Artan's "association with suspected members of terror organisations" as the reason for denying his entry.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino acknowledged the situation, calling it an "unfortunate development." He also reflected on the governing body's limited influence over immigration decisions made by host nations. Artan later broke his silence, expressing clear dismay over the outcome. "I am very, very disappointed," he said after missing out on the tournament.
Despite the setback, the Somali referee's professional reputation continues to grow. The European Confederation of Soccer, UEFA, named him to officiate the UEFA Super Cup between UEFA Champions League winner Paris Saint-Germain and Europa League winners Aston Villa in Salzburg, Austria, on 12th August.
Nonetheless, the financial resolution from FIFA ensures that while Artan will not be part of the World Cup on the field, his selection is still formally recognized in compensation. For referees, the tournament fees are typically undisclosed until after the event concludes, making FIFA's commitment to pay his full amount a rare and notable outcome.
According to a report from The Times, referees in the ongoing tournament will reportedly earn more than $100,000. This is a major jump from the $70,000 base pay FIFA officials received during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Referees assigned to knockout rounds will receive additional bonuses. While Artan may miss out on the extra rewards, he will still receive compensation for the moment of history taken away from him.
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This story was originally published June 14, 2026 at 10:14 AM.