World Cup 2026: Seattle Youth Academy returns free tickets in solidarity with referee Omar Artan

A Seattle-based youth football academy has made the remarkable decision to return 20 free FIFA World Cup tickets in a show of solidarity with Somali referee Omar Artan, who was denied entry into the United States despite being selected to officiate at the tournament.

The African Youth Sports Academy, led by former semi-professional footballer and Somali refugee Ali Abdulla, had been awarded the tickets through a community initiative organized by the Seattle World Cup organizing committee and the mayor’s office. For many of the academy’s players, who come from low-income immigrant families, it represented a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to attend a World Cup match. Ticket prices for knockout-stage games have reportedly approached $1,000, making attendance impossible for most of the children involved.

However, plans changed after Artan was denied entry into the United States. The 34-year-old had been set to become the first Somali referee in World Cup history before being removed from FIFA’s final list following the decision by U.S. authorities. Artan had previously been named Africa’s Referee of the Year in 2025 and was considered a source of immense pride for Somalia.

Initially, Abdulla considered stepping down from his role as a volunteer FIFA ambassador. But after discussing the matter with parents and coaches connected to the academy, a stronger gesture emerged.

“They all sent a message saying, ‘We feel heartbroken, we feel betrayed,'” Abdulla said.

“We don’t feel right to go celebrate while the only person in the history of our country selected to referee the World Cup is feeling pain and disappointed.”

The academy’s decision was particularly significant given how much the tickets meant to the children. The organization had already planned a soccer competition to determine which young players and family members would receive the coveted seats.

Abdulla said the reaction from parents left him emotional.

“I felt so emotional when the parents said that, because to return a one-time opportunity for solidarity with our boy, that made me very proud to lead this organization.”

The move has attracted widespread attention, highlighting the impact of Artan’s exclusion across Somali communities worldwide. Despite missing the World Cup, Artan recently received a major boost when UEFA appointed him to officiate the UEFA Super Cup between Paris Saint-Germain and Aston Villa in August.

While the academy’s young players were understandably disappointed, Abdulla believes the decision sends a powerful message about unity and standing up for principles.

“The kids are very sad, very heartbroken,” he said. “We have to teach them to stand up for the right thing.”