A 34-year-old Somali referee who was denied entry into the United States for the FIFA World Cup 2026 has landed one of European football’s biggest officiating assignments—the UEFA Super Cup final.
UEFA has appointed Omar Abdulkadir Artan to referee the 2026 Super Cup final between Paris Saint-Germain and Aston Villa, scheduled for August 12 at Red Bull Arena in Salzburg, Austria.
From U.S. Snub to European Spotlight
Artan’s appointment comes weeks after U.S. Customs and Border Protection denied him entry into the country ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026, which the United States, Canada, and Mexico are co-hosting. A Trump administration official linked the denial to alleged terror associations—claims that Artan has strongly denied.
The controversy drew widespread condemnation from football authorities across Africa and beyond, with many calling the decision politically motivated and discriminatory.
UEFA’s decision to hand Artan one of its most prestigious assignments is widely seen as a direct response to the U.S. snub—a statement of confidence in the referee’s integrity and ability.
A Historic Appointment
Artan is no stranger to big stages. He was named CAF’s Men’s Referee of the Year in 2025 and became the first Somali referee to officiate a major continental final.
UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin personally praised Artan’s officiating skills, describing the appointment as merit-based.
The assignment is also tied to a new memorandum of understanding between UEFA and CAF aimed at promoting unity, equality, and cooperation between European and African football.
PSG vs Aston Villa—August 12, Salzburg
The Super Cup final will pit French giants PSG against English Premier League side Aston Villa at Red Bull Arena in Salzburg. Artan will take center stage when the two clubs meet in what promises to be one of the standout fixtures of the summer.
