MOGADISHU – Omar Abdulkadir Artan has written a new chapter in the history of Somali football, becoming the first Somali referee ever selected to officiate at a FIFA World Cup tournament. The historic appointment will see him take the field at the FIFA U-20 World Cup 2025 in Chile, which is scheduled to run from September 27 to October 19.
Artan is one of only three center referees chosen from the entire African continent and is the sole representative from Sub-Saharan Africa, a significant honor that highlights his distinguished reputation and professionalism. He will be joined by fellow African referees Jalal Jayed from Morocco and Youcef Gamouh from Algeria. The officiating team also includes a number of assistant referees from across the continent: Gilbert Cheruiyot (Kenya), Abelmiro Montenegro (São Tomé and Príncipe), Khalil Hassani (Tunisia), Eric Ayimavo (Benin), Lahsen Azgaou (Morocco), and Mostafa Akarkad (Morocco).
This momentous achievement is the culmination of a career marked by a series of firsts for Somali football. Artan previously made his mark by becoming the first Somali referee to oversee a continental final, a high-stakes match between Egypt’s Pyramids FC and South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns in Cairo. He has also officiated at the prestigious Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), cementing his status as a leading figure in African football officiating.
Artan’s selection is a source of immense pride for Somalia, serving as a powerful inspiration for aspiring athletes and referees across the nation. His ascent to the global stage demonstrates the dedication and commitment required to succeed at the highest level and solidifies Somalia’s growing presence in international sports.
