Omar Artan
Awards & Honours
0
Awards Won
3
Records
Omar Artan's career is defined by a series of historic firsts for Somali football. Being the first Somali to officiate a CAF Champions League final and the first to be selected for a FIFA World Cup tournament are remarkable achievements that have brought pride to his nation. His selection as the only Sub-Saharan African referee at the FIFA U-20 World Cup further underscores his standing. These milestones, achieved despite the challenges of working from a country with limited football infrastructure, make Artan a true pioneer.
Records & Feats
First Somali referee to officiate a CAF Champions League Final
Artan became the first referee from Somalia to take charge of a continental club final when he officiated the 2024-25 CAF Champions League Final between Pyramids FC and Mamelodi Sundowns.
First Somali referee selected for a FIFA World Cup
Artan was chosen as one of three centre referees from Africa for a FIFA World Cup tournament, making him the first Somali official ever selected. He was later removed after being denied entry to the United States.
Only Sub-Saharan African referee at 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup
Artan was the sole referee from Sub-Saharan Africa to officiate at the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup, highlighting his elite status on the continent.