Omar Artan, a Somali referee, will receive his full payment for officiating at the 2026 World Cup despite being unable to enter the United States due to visa issues. This decision has been confirmed by BBC Sport, which cites reliable sources.
FIFA has opted to fully compensate Artan, even though he will not be present for any matches during the tournament. The confirmation of his payment comes amid the ongoing challenges faced by referees attempting to travel for the event.
Artan’s visa denial has sparked significant discussion within the football community, particularly as he was one of the referees appointed to officiate at this prestigious tournament. The incident highlights the complexities and potential barriers faced by international sports officials.