World Cup referee denied US entry arrives home to hero's welcome in Somalia
Omar Artan vows to officiate at the 2030 tournament instead, following his ban from entering the US.
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Notable Quotes
"I promise you that I'll be officiating you in the next World Cup."
— Omar Artan , Athlete
"What happened has happened and it was unfortunate. I am grateful for the support Fifa gave me."
— Omar Artan , Athlete
"I promise you, God willing, that I will attend the next one."
— Omar Artan , Athlete
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Omar Artan vows to officiate at the 2030 tournament instead, following his ban from entering the US.
Omar Artan, a Somali referee set to be the first from his country to officiate at a World Cup, was denied entry into the U.S. and received a hero's welcome upon returning to Mogadishu, pledging to attend the next World Cup.
Omar Artan, a Somali referee who was denied entry to the U.S., returned to Mogadishu to a warm reception, expressing plans to participate in future World Cups and urging Somali youth to take pride in their country.
Omar Artan, a Somali referee who was denied entry to the U.S. ahead of the FIFA World Cup, returned to Mogadishu to a hero's welcome, with crowds gathering to support him and express national pride.
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