FIFA has decided to pay the complete tournament fee to referee Omar Artan, the Somalian official who was barred from entering the United States to officiate at the World Cup. Despite not taking charge of any match, Artan will receive his full remuneration from the governing body of world football.
Background of the Incident
Artan was selected by FIFA to officiate at the World Cup but was refused entry to the USA after an 11-hour interview with border control. According to BBC Sport, the official was turned away despite having what he described as the correct paperwork and visa.
FIFA's Decision on Payment
The exact fee Artan will receive remains undisclosed, as referees typically learn their earnings only after the tournament concludes. Reports from The Times suggest that referees at the World Cup can earn up to £75,000, with additional bonuses for those officiating in later stages.
UEFA's Gesture of Solidarity
In a show of support, UEFA has appointed Artan to officiate the Super Cup final between Paris Saint-Germain and Aston Villa on August 12. This decision follows the controversy surrounding his denial of entry to the United States.
Hero's Welcome in Somalia
Upon returning to Somalia earlier this week, Artan was greeted as a hero by fans and officials. In a statement, he expressed gratitude: "I'd like to thank the officials, ministers, MPs and everyone. I want to thank my country and people for their support. The encouragement I received here, I know I'll get more support outside [the airport]."
He added: "Everything is pre-destined. FIFA supported me well and were in touch with me until I reached Mogadishu. I promise you that I'll be officiating you in the next World Cup. Somalia, everywhere, I'm letting you know."
US Administration's Explanation
A source from the Donald Trump administration told the BBC: "This individual was seeking admission to the United States. Upon further inspection by CBP [Custom and Border Protection], derogatory information, including association with suspected members of terror organisations, was discovered making the traveller ineligible for admission to the United States under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA)."
The source added: "President Trump's administration will not allow any security threat to enter our country - full stop."
Artan has maintained his innocence, stating: "I'm just simply a referee who's trying to live his dream, the biggest dream of my life, to come to the World Cup."
