Somali referee Omar Artan has been appointed to officiate the 2026 UEFA Super Cup between Paris Saint-Germain and Aston Villa, weeks after missing the FIFA World Cup following his denial of entry to the United States.
Artan had been set to become the first referee from Somalia to officiate at a World Cup after being named Africa’s best male referee in 2025. However, he was denied entry to the United States at Miami International Airport despite holding a diplomatic passport.
Speaking this week, Andrew Giuliani, Executive Director of the White House Task Force on the World Cup, defended the decision.
“To this point, we’ve had 35 teams that have come into the United States. No players, no coaches have been denied.
“There have been some officials that have been denied, and for good reason.”
The decision attracted significant criticism, and Artan received a warm welcome upon his return to Somalia, where supporters gathered to greet him in Mogadishu.
UEFA has now confirmed that Artan will take charge of the 2026 UEFA Super Cup, which will be contested by UEFA Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain and UEFA Europa League winners Aston Villa.
🏆 Referee announced for 2026 #SuperCup!
— UEFA (@UEFA) June 11, 2026
We're pleased to share that Somali referee Omar Artan will officiate the highly anticipated match between PSG and Aston Villa in Salzburg.
UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin said the appointment reflects the organisation’s recognition of Artan’s achievements as an official.
“Omar Artan is an excellent young but already experienced referee, who has proven himself at the highest competition level of the Confederation of African Football.
“Football is made to connect people, and UEFA wants to show its respect to Omar and his outstanding officiating skills, which had earned him such a prestigious nomination. I am grateful to my friend CAF President Patrice Motsepe for supporting enthusiastically our initiative.”
The appointment gives Artan the opportunity to officiate one of European football’s major club fixtures and marks a significant moment in his refereeing career following the disappointment of missing the World Cup.
