Omar Abdulkadir Artan to receive full FIFA fee despite World Cup entry ban

In partnership with

OffsAIde

·15 June 2026

Omar Abdulkadir Artan to receive full FIFA fee despite World Cup entry ban

Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan, barred from entering the United States for the World Cup, will still receive his full FIFA fee. According to L'Équipe, the governing body has committed to honouring his tournament remuneration despite his absence.

The Trump administration said the refusal was based on alleged links between Artan and suspected members of terrorist organisations.

OneFootball Videos

Voted African Referee of the Year in 2025, he would have become the first Somali to officiate at a World Cup. He was turned away by US Customs and Border Protection.

On his return to Somalia he received a hero's welcome.

UEFA has appointed him to referee the UEFA Super Cup between PSG and Aston Villa on 12 August.

Source: L'Équipe