Tag: CAF

At 34, Omar Artan has broken yet another barrier for Somali football. Selected among just 52 referees for the 2026 World Cup, he earns praise from President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud as “a symbol of inspiration” for a generation that has never seen their nation qualify for a global tournament.

Somali international referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan has been voted the 2025 African referee of the year after a season of outstanding performances in major continental competitions. His journey from Mogadishu’s local leagues to Africa’s highest officiating honor has been hailed as an inspiration for Somali youth.