Missing out on the 2026 FIFA World Cup has not dimmed Omar Artan’s ambitions. If anything, the Somali referee says the disappointment has sharpened his determination to return to football’s biggest stage in four years’ time.
Artan, who was selected to officiate at the 2026 World Cup but was unable to take part after being denied a visa, said he remains focused on earning a place at the 2030 tournament, which will be hosted by Morocco, Portugal and Spain.
Speaking during a reception in Nairobi’s Eastleigh neighbourhood, Artan said the setback had strengthened his resolve rather than weakened it.
The event, held at BBS Mall and organised by telecommunications company Somtel, brought together football officials, government leaders and members of the Somali community to celebrate one of Africa’s most respected referees. Somtel recently named Artan as one of its brand ambassadors ahead of the World Cup.
For Artan, the visit carried personal significance. He said Kenya has become like a second home after years of working alongside Kenyan assistant referees on international assignments.
“For me, it’s fantastic, especially football in Kenya. I have always worked with Kenyan assistant referees over the last three or four years, and now I feel like I am at home,” Artan said.
Among those attending the ceremony were Football Kenya Federation President Hussein Mohammed, Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale and Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi.
Duale said he believes Artan’s World Cup dream is far from over, expressing confidence that the referee will earn another opportunity when the tournament returns in 2030.
“There was a small turbulence, but I am sure, Inshallah, at the next FIFA World Cup in Morocco, Portugal and Spain, Omar will be there. Africa will be proud, Kenya will be proud and Somalia will be proud,” Duale said.
Artan’s standing within African football has continued to rise. In 2025, he was named the Confederation of African Football’s Men’s Referee of the Year, recognition that cemented his place among the continent’s leading match officials.
The reception attracted hundreds of supporters, including business leaders, young football enthusiasts and community members, many of whom described Artan as a role model for aspiring referees across East Africa.
Although missing the 2026 World Cup remains a painful chapter in his career, Artan made it clear that his focus has already shifted to the next challenge. He said he intends to maintain the standards that have taken him to the highest level of international football while inspiring a new generation of referees across the region.
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