WHO Chief Expresses Support for Somali Referee Barred from Entering US
According to reports, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus publicly voiced solidarity with Artan via social media, praising his achievement as a historic milestone for Somali and African refereeing.
“Omar Artan didn’t just make the FIFA World Cup, he made history as the first Somali referee to get there, and as Africa’s best. That milestone stands no matter what,” Ghebreyesus said in a post on X.
He added that Artan had reached the highest level of his profession and served as an inspiration to young people in Somalia and beyond.
“So sorry to see this, Omar. You reached the summit of your profession and inspired a generation back home just by getting there, and being kept off the pitch you earned doesn’t change that,” he said.
Ghebreyesus also expressed confidence that Artan’s career would continue on the international stage, stating: “This won’t be the end of your story on the world stage. The world stands with you as one family, wishing you resilience now and many more major finals to come. Solidarity,” according to reports.
Artan had been expected to become the first Somali referee to officiate at a FIFA World Cup.
According to reports, his situation follows a US policy introduced under a June 4, 2025 proclamation that fully restricts entry for Somali nationals, stating: “The entry into the United States of nationals of Somalia as immigrants and nonimmigrants is hereby fully suspended.”
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