Somali Referee Omar Artan to Officiate UEFA Super Cup

Omar Artan, a Somali referee, is set to officiate the UEFA Super Cup on Wednesday between Paris Saint-Germain and Aston Villa in Salzburg, Austria. This appointment is significant as Artan becomes the first non-European referee to officiate this prestigious match, following a setback where he was denied entry to the United States for the 2026 FIFA World Cup despite being selected as a match official.

The 34-year-old was barred from entering the U.S. in June due to immigration restrictions related to national security concerns. His appointment for the Super Cup is seen as a landmark achievement for African refereeing and reflects growing cooperation between UEFA and the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

Artan has previously officiated at major continental competitions and is recognized as one of Africa's leading referees. He has been preparing for this high-profile assignment by studying both teams and maintaining match fitness through officiating in Somalia and the Kuwaiti Premier League.