Somali referee Artan gets hero's welcome after World Cup setback

Somali referee Omar Artan has returned home to a warm welcome in Mogadishu after being denied entry to the United States ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Artan, who was selected by FIFA to officiate at the tournament, spoke publicly about the incident at a press conference in the Somali capital. The case has drawn widespread attention in Somalia, with football officials seeking clarification over the circumstances surrounding his denied entry. CGTN correspondent Mohamed Kahiye reports from Mogadishu.

📺 Subscribe to our YouTube channel and stay updated with our latest analysis and interviews:👇 https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgrNz-aDmcr2uuto8_DL2jg 👈

Download our APP on Apple Store (iOS): https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/cctvnews-app/id922456579?l=zh&ls=1&mt=8 Download our APP on Google Play (Android): https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.imib.cctv

For more: https://www.cgtn.com/video

Most watched videos: Impossible Challenge: 30 seconds to count banknotes BLINDFOLDED https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZmP_Ybj-jws Impossible Challenge: Gymnastics Boy Arat Hosseini from Iran! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8sxX--U4c8w Impossible Challenge: How to calm babies in 5 seconds? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kR3q9sXM7WA