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Somalia's Omar Artan Becomes First Referee at World Cup

4/10/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Omar Abdulqadir Artan, a Somali referee, has been selected to officiate at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, becoming Somalia's first official at this level.
The Somali Ministry of Youth and Sports celebrated Artan's milestone, noting its potential to inspire Somali youth.
Artan officiated at Africa Cup of Nations and was named the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Best Male Referee of the Year.

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Story summary

Omar Abdulqadir Artan, a Somali referee, has been selected to officiate at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, becoming Somalia's first official at this level.
The Somali Ministry of Youth and Sports celebrated Artan's milestone, noting its potential to inspire Somali youth.
Artan officiated at Africa Cup of Nations and was named the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Best Male Referee of the Year.