Omar Abdulkadir Artan has etched his name in Somali football history by becoming the first Somali referee ever selected to officiate at a FIFA World Cup tournament, namely the FIFA U-20 World Cup 2025 in Chile, scheduled from 27 September to 19 October 2025.
A Landmark Appointment for Somali Football
Hailing from Somalia, Artan stands out as one of only three center referees chosen from Africa, and notably, the sole representative from sub-Saharan Africa at this prestigious event.
He will be joined on the field by Morocco’s Jalal Jayed and Algeria’s Youcef Gamouh.
Esteemed assistant referees from across the continent will also bring Africa’s presence to the officiating team, such as:
- Kenya’s Gilbert Cheruiyot
- São Tomé and Príncipe’s Abelmiro Montenegro
- Tunisia’s Khalil Hassani, Benin’s Eric Ayimavo
- Morocco’s Lahsen Azgaou and Mostafa Akarkad
Career Milestones & Rising Through the Ranks
Artan’s selection is the culmination of a distinguished refereeing career. A member of the FIFA referees list since 2018, he has steadily progressed from domestic Somali leagues to the continental and international stage.
He previously officiated key fixtures such as the CAF Champions League final between Egypt’s Pyramids FC and South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns, becoming the first Somali referee to lead a continental final.
He also officiated at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and participated in tournaments like the U-20 and U-23 Africa Cups.
Why This Matters: Significance for Somalia and African Football
1. A Proud Milestone for Somali Sports
In a nation rebuilding amid challenges, Artan’s achievement represents a powerful success story—an inspiring testament to excellence and perseverance.
2. Elevating African Representation
Being among the few African referees at a FIFA World Cup underscores the continent’s growing influence in international football governance.
3. Role Model for Future Generations
Artan’s path from local leagues to global platforms offers a valuable roadmap for aspiring referees in Somalia and across Africa.
4. Strengthening the Appeal of Youth Tournaments
Officiating at the U-20 World Cup not only raises Somalia’s international profile but signals FIFA’s broader commitment to diverse talent recognition.
African Officiating at FIFA U-20 World Cup 2025
| Role | Names |
|---|---|
| Center Referees | Omar Abdulkadir Artan (Somalia), Jalal Jayed (Morocco), Youcef Gamouh (Algeria) |
| Assistant Referees | Gilbert Cheruiyot (Kenya), Abelmiro Montenegro (São Tomé & Príncipe), Khalil Hassani (Tunisia), Eric Ayimavo (Benin), Lahsen Azgaou (Morocco), Mostafa Akarkad (Morocco) |
This robust group promises to deliver high standards of officiating, underscoring Africa’s vital contribution to the sport’s integrity.
Final Thoughts
Omar Abdulkadir Artan’s selection is more than just personal triumph—it’s a beacon of Somali sporting progress and African potential.
His journey from local fields to the global stage of Chile signals a new era where dedication, skill, and representation pave the way for international recognition.
