Before the World Cup even kicked off, one of its first major storylines centered on Somali referee Omar Artan — and it had nothing to do with a match.

Despite holding a valid visa and official FIFA accreditation, Artan was denied entry into the United States, sparking immediate controversy. Now, FIFA has moved to back him fully, guaranteeing he will receive the full salary he would have earned officiating at the tournament.

Ref denies terrorism links

According to U.S. officials at the time, Artan was turned away after security checks allegedly uncovered “unfavorable information, including links to suspected members of terrorist organizations,” a claim made by an official from the Donald Trump administration. Artan denied the allegations, but he was still detained for 11 hours at Miami International Airport before being refused entry.

Sources close to FIFA told the BBC that Artan is entitled to his full compensation even though he won’t officiate a single World Cup match. Referees are typically paid after the tournament ends, so the exact amount remains unknown.

But the financial support isn’t the only recognition he’s received.

After missing out on the World Cup, UEFA appointed Artan to referee the UEFA Super Cup final between PSG and Aston Villa — a prestigious assignment that many see as a show of confidence in his professionalism and reputation.

And when he returned home to Somalia, he was welcomed like a national hero. Crowds gathered at Mogadishu’s airport to greet him with cheers and applause, celebrating what would have been a historic milestone: Artan was set to become the first Somali referee ever to officiate at a World Cup. That dream will have to wait, but his country has made it clear they stand firmly behind him.

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