World Cup 2026: FIFA must compensate Omar Artan after being denied US entry – Former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA referee Keith Hackett

Former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA referee Keith Hackett has criticised the circumstances surrounding Somali official Omar Abdulkadir Artan, who was unable to take up his role at the FIFA World Cup after being denied entry into the United States.

The 34-year-old was among a selected group of African referees appointed for the tournament but was reportedly barred from travelling, ending his hopes of officiating on football’s biggest stage.

Hackett described the situation as deeply unjust and urged football’s global governing body to take responsibility for what he sees as a lost career opportunity.

“This appears to be so unfair, depriving a young referee of the opportunity to officiate at a World Cup,” he said. “The pathway to the top is incredibly difficult, and this referee has developed a career that has seen him meet the challenges and rise to the elite level.”

He added that the impact of missing out would extend beyond Artan alone, highlighting the disappointment likely felt by those closest to him.

“I am sure that his family and federation will be so disappointed,” Hackett continued. “Referees are expected to earn in the region of $100,000 (£74,630). So, I hope that FIFA, who have failed in supporting his case, will make a discretionary payment of $100,000 to him and his family.”

The comments have intensified debate around the support structures in place for match officials selected for major international tournaments, particularly those from emerging football nations.

Meanwhile, Artan has returned home to a warm reception in Mogadishu, where he was greeted on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, by crowds and officials describing his arrival as “heroic” despite the disappointment of missing the tournament.

The Somali Football Federation and supporters gathered at Aden Adde International Airport to honour the referee, whose rise to the elite level has been widely celebrated across the country.

His homecoming has been framed locally as both a moment of pride and reflection, as questions continue over how one of Africa’s leading referees was ultimately unable to fulfil a World Cup appointment.