World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on Tuesday expressed support for Somali referee Omar Artan, after reports that he was denied entry to the US ahead of the FIFA World Cup.
“Omar Artan didn’t just make the FIFA World Cup, he made history as the first Somali referee to get there, and as Africa’s best. That milestone stands no matter what,” Tedros said on X.
He said Artan had reached the highest level of his profession and inspired a generation of young Somalis through his achievement.
“So sorry to see this, Omar. You reached the summit of your profession and inspired a generation back home just by getting there, and being kept off the pitch you earned doesn’t change that,” he added.
Tedros also expressed confidence that Artan would continue to officiate at major international tournaments.
