Somali referee Omar Artan has been selected to officiate the 2026 UEFA Super Cup clash between Paris Saint-Germain and Aston Villa, marking a significant career milestone just days after being denied the opportunity to participate in the FIFA World Cup.
The highly anticipated encounter is scheduled to take place on August 12 at the Red Bull Arena in Salzburg, Austria, with Artan appointed as the centre referee for one of Europe’s most prestigious club fixtures.
The appointment comes shortly after disappointment for the 34-year-old official, who missed out on officiating at the 2026 FIFA World Cup despite having been chosen for the tournament.
Artan was set to become the first Somali referee to officiate at a World Cup final. However, reports indicate that he was denied entry into the United States at Miami International Airport despite travelling with a diplomatic passport and a valid single-entry US visa.
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The development generated widespread disappointment in Somalia and across the African football community, where many viewed the incident as an unfortunate setback for a referee who had worked diligently to reach the highest level of international officiating.
In a significant vote of confidence, UEFA has now entrusted Omar Artan with one of the most high-profile assignments in European football, reaffirming his reputation as one of the continent’s leading match officials.
The UEFA Super Cup, contested annually between the winners of Europe’s premier club competitions, is regarded as one of the most prestigious fixtures on the football calendar outside the UEFA Champions League final.
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For Omar Artan, the appointment represents another major achievement in a career that has continued to rise steadily in recent years. The Somali official was named CAF Men’s Referee of the Year in 2025 and has earned widespread recognition for his performances in both African and international competitions.
His selection to oversee a match involving European heavyweights Paris Saint-Germain and Aston Villa further highlights his growing stature within world football and serves as a fitting response to the disappointment of missing the World Cup.
Following his return to Somalia on Wednesday after his unsuccessful attempt to enter the United States, Omar Artan received a warm reception from football officials, supporters, and stakeholders who celebrated his achievements and contributions to the sport.
Although he will not be taking charge at the World Cup this year, Artan is set to officiate one of Europe’s biggest club matches, ensuring that his remarkable journey continues on another major stage of world football.