By: Odeh Favour Adiya
In a dramatic turn of events ahead of the global football showpiece, Somali referee Omar Artan has been appointed to officiate the 2026 UEFA Super Cup. The announcement by European football’s governing body comes as a major statement of support following his recent controversial exclusion from international duty.
Just days prior to the tournament’s kickoff, Artan—who was named to the 52-strong roster of referees for the finals in Canada, Mexico, and the United States was barred from entering the US after arriving at Miami International Airport.
A US State Department official stated that the referee was “associated with suspected members of terrorist organisations”, consequently “making the traveller ineligible for admission to the United States”. Following the denial of entry, FIFA confirmed that he would no longer be part of the World Cup officiating team. Artan has since returned to a hero’s welcome in Mogadishu, vowing to take part in the next World Cup in 2030.
Stepping in to show solidarity and respect for his technical abilities, UEFA announced that after talks with the African Football Confederation (CAF), Artan will instead take charge of the Super Cup clash on August 12 in Salzburg, Austria.
The highly anticipated match will feature Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain taking on Europa League winners Aston Villa.
UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin poured praise on the Somali official, highlighting his capabilities despite the political setback. “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,” Ceferin said.
“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.”
The collaboration emphasizes a unified front between European and African football leadership. In an official statement, the governing body noted that “UEFA and CAF are united by a shared commitment to developing football at all levels and promoting the core values of unity, equality and non-discrimination.”
CAF President Patrice Motsepe also voiced strong support, stating that Artan had “made Somalia and the entire people of the African continent extremely proud”.
Motsepe added that his receipt of the 2025 CAF Men’s Referee of the Year award, combined with the Super Cup appointment, serves as an excellent example of football bringing together and uniting people from Africa, Europe, and worldwide.
