Somali referee Omar Artan, who was recently denied entry into the United States for the FIFA World Cup, has been selected to officiate this year’s UEFA Super Cup, European football’s governing body announced Thursday.
UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin praised Artan’s abilities in a statement released just hours before the World Cup kicked off, calling him an excellent young but already experienced referee who has proven himself at the highest level of the Confederation of African Football.
Ceferin added, Football is meant to connect people, and UEFA wants to show its respect for Omar and his outstanding officiating skills, which have earned him this prestigious appointment.
UEFA confirmed that, following discussions with the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Artan will officiate the 2026 UEFA Super Cup on August 12 in Salzburg, Austria. This match will feature Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain and Europa League winners Aston Villa.
Artan’s case has been one of several controversies to overshadow the build-up to the World Cup. UEFA said his appointment was part of an agreement with CAF to foster cooperation and promote the core values of unity, equality, and non-discrimination in football.
CAF President Patrice Motsepe expressed pride in Artan, stating, “He has made Somalia and the entire African continent extremely proud. His receipt of the CAF Men’s Referee of the Year award in 2025 and his selection for the FIFA World Cup 2026 reflect his world-class officiating and international respect. His appointment to the Super Cup is a great honor for both him and African referees, and is a powerful example of football uniting people from Africa, Europe, and around the world.”
A senior advisor to Somalia’s Ministry of Sports, Ciise Aden Abshir, said Artan’s situation had sparked “significant concern both within Somalia and internationally.” He added, “We have been in contact with various sporting bodies in Europe to raise awareness and request support. UEFA’s decision came in response to our appeal and demonstrates a commitment to integrity and fair play. Officiating the UEFA Super Cup is a unique opportunity, and we are grateful for UEFA’s support.”
Artan was barred from entering the US last Saturday after arriving at Miami International Airport. A US State Department official told AFP that the referee was “associated with suspected members of terrorist organizations,” making him ineligible for entry. FIFA subsequently confirmed he would not participate in the World Cup.
Artan’s original selection as one of 52 referees for the World Cup finals—set to take place in Canada, Mexico, and the United States—had been a source of pride in Somalia. Upon his return to Mogadishu on Wednesday, he received a hero’s welcome and pledged to pursue officiating at the next World Cup in 2030.
— AFP
