SALZBURG, Austria – Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan has been appointed by UEFA to officiate the 2026 UEFA Super Cup final between Paris Saint-Germain and Aston Villa on August 12 in Salzburg, Austria. The appointment comes just days after Artan was unable to participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup following his denial of entry into the United States despite holding a valid visa.
Artan, widely regarded as one of Africa’s leading match officials and the 2025 CAF Referee of the Year, was expected to become the first Somali referee to officiate at a FIFA World Cup.
However, immigration-related issues prevented his involvement in the tournament, sparking international discussion within the football community.
UEFA said the appointment was made in cooperation with the Confederation of African Football under a new partnership agreement aimed at strengthening football development and refereeing standards.
UEFA and CAF officials praised Artan’s professionalism and achievements, describing his selection as recognition of his outstanding contributions to the game.
The decision has been welcomed across Africa and Somalia, where many view the appointment as a significant milestone for Somali football and a strong vote of confidence in Artan’s abilities on the international stage.
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