The Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan will have a new opportunity in the elite of international football after UEFA appointed him to direct the European Super Cup final between Paris Saint-Germain and Aston Villa, next August 12 in Salzburg, Austria.
The appointment comes a few days after Artan was unable to participate in the World Cup 2026, because the United States authorities denied entry due to inconveniences detected during the process background check. The 34-year-old referee was set to become the first Somali referee to referee at a World Cup.
Given this situation, the president of UEFA, Aleksander Ceferin, highlighted that the appointment seeks to recognize the talent and career of the African referee. “Football unites people and we want to show our respect to Omar and his exceptional refereeing work,” the leader said in an official statement.
The designation is part of the collaboration agreement between UEFA and the Confederation of African Football (CAF), which promotes the development of sport and values such as equality, inclusion and non-discrimination.
Artan faces this commitment backed by an outstanding career. He was recognized as the best referee of Africa last year and has been part of the FIFA international list since 2018. Among his most relevant performances is directing the second leg final of the CAF Champions League in his most recent season.
For his part, the president of the CAF, Patrice Motsepe, celebrated the decision and assured that the Somali whistle represents a source of pride for the entire African continent. “It is a great honor for him and an example of how football can unite Africa, Europe and the world,” he said. In addition, he highlighted the prestige and respect of the referee in the international arena.
After being denied entry to the United States, Artan returned to Somalia, where he was received as a hero in Mogadishu, a reflection of the impact of his career in his country and in African soccer.
🏆 Referee announced for 2026 #SuperCup!
We’re pleased to share that Somali referee Omar Artan will officiate the highly anticipated match between PSG and Aston Villa in Salzburg.
— UEFA (@UEFA) June 11, 2026
Now he will have the opportunity to vindicate himself on one of the most important stages in European football, by directing a duel between the champion of the Champions League and the winner of the Europa League, in a match that symbolizes not only competitiveness, but also the values of inclusion and recognition in sport.