Omar Artan to Referee 2026 UEFA Super Cup After World Cup Visa Denial

Somali referee Omar Artan will take charge of the UEFA Super Cup clash between Paris Saint-Germain and Aston Villa following a controversial exclusion from the 2026 World Cup. This appointment marks a historic moment as Artan becomes the first non-European to referee the UEFA Super Cup.

Background on Omar Artan's Career

The 34-year-old official previously made history by being the first Somali referee to oversee the CAF Champions League final and earned the African federation’s men's referee of the year award in 2025. He was also selected for the 2026 World Cup, a first for a Somali match official.

Visa Issues and World Cup Exclusion

Artan arrived in Miami on June 8, where FIFA had stationed its referees for the World Cup. Despite possessing a valid visa and all necessary documentation, he was denied entry to the United States after extra screening. The authorities cited "vetting concerns" as the reason, turning him away. Somalia remains on a travel ban list instituted under former President Donald Trump's administration.

A FIFA spokesperson said: “FIFA can confirm that match official Omar Abdulkadir Artan will be unable to train and officiate at the FIFA World Cup 2026 after he was denied entry into the United States. FIFA is not involved in host country immigration processes, including visa adjudications, and has been informed by authorities that Mr Artan’s status will not be changed at present. In line with previous FIFA events, a host government ultimately determines who receives a visa and who is admitted into their country.”

Why Artan Was Chosen for the UEFA Super Cup

Just three days after being denied entry to the US, UEFA announced Artan would referee this year's Super Cup. This decision aligns with a memorandum signed in April between UEFA and CAF to strengthen collaboration in several areas, including refereeing.

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin commented: “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 our initiative enthusiastically.”

Speaking to UEFA.com, Artan expressed gratitude for the global support he received and shared the pride he feels representing Somalia on such a big stage.

“A lot of people have sympathy for me because when someone has been working a lot of years and is supposed to do something, and then can’t do it, it’s very challenging. I really appreciate the support I received throughout the world, though; I’m so grateful.”“When we got this call, it was, for me and my family, really a very, very happy moment. There’s a big Somali community in Europe and in Austria, and they are over the moon with me officiating a match like this. I have worked very hard to be here and I’m really proud. As you can imagine, I grew up in a difficult situation, but it didn’t prevent me from pursuing my dreams.”

Upcoming Match Details

• Match: Paris Saint-Germain vs Aston Villa
• Event: 2026 UEFA Super Cup
• Venue: Red Bull Arena, Salzburg
• Date: Wednesday (exact date not specified)