Somalia president Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to reward Omar Artan with five-bedroom house after World Cup disappointment

Somalia President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is reportedly set to reward renowned referee Omar Artan with a five-bedroom house in recognition of his achievements and resilience following his heartbreaking absence from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

According to reports, arrangements are already being made for the special gesture, which comes shortly after Artan was denied the opportunity to officiate at football’s biggest tournament despite earning a place among FIFA’s selected match officials.

The Somali referee had been named on FIFA’s official list of referees for the 2026 World Cup, a historic achievement that was widely celebrated across Somalia and the African football community. However, his dream of participating in the tournament was cut short after he was denied entry into the United States, one of the host nations for the competition.

Artan’s exclusion sparked widespread disappointment, with many football stakeholders and supporters expressing sympathy for the official, who has risen through the ranks to become one of Africa’s most respected referees.

The reported decision by President Mohamud is being viewed as a powerful show of appreciation for Artan’s contribution to Somali football and his role in raising the country’s profile on the international stage.

Despite missing out on the World Cup, Artan’s selection by FIFA was itself a landmark achievement and a testament to years of hard work, dedication and excellence in officiating. His appointment to the tournament had been celebrated as a moment of national pride, symbolising the progress of Somali football officials on the global stage.

The planned reward is expected to serve as recognition of those achievements while also offering encouragement to aspiring referees and sports officials across the country.

Artan remains one of Africa’s most accomplished match officials, and his journey from Somalia to the highest levels of world football continues to inspire many across the continent.