Confederation of African Football (CAF) President Patrice Motsepe has reiterated CAF’s support for Somali referee Omar Artan after the official missed the FIFA World Cup due to a United States visa denial.
Motsepe praised Artan’s credentials, describing him as Africa’s top referee, and stressed that CAF’s confidence in him remains unchanged despite the disappointment.
“Omar Artan is the best referee in Africa, and we will continue to support him despite the United States’ decision to deny him entry into the country for the World Cup,” Motsepe said. 
The CAF president noted that the federation remains committed to supporting African match officials and ensuring that the continent’s refereeing talent continues to receive recognition and opportunities on the global stage.
Motsepe’s remarks also serve as reassurance to referees across Africa that CAF will continue to stand by its officials, regardless of administrative or geopolitical challenges that may impact international participation.
