Omar Artan to Officiate 2026 UEFA Super Cup After World Cup Visa Denial
Somali referee Omar Artan will oversee the UEFA Super Cup match between Paris Saint-Germain and Aston Villa. This appointment comes after a controversial moment where he was prevented from officiating at the 2026 World Cup due to visa issues.
Historic Appointment
At 34 years old, Artan becomes the first non-European to referee the UEFA Super Cup. He has already made history as the first Somali official to manage the CAF Champions League final and earned the African federation's men's referee of the year award in 2025. His selection for the World Cup marked another milestone for Somali referees.
The World Cup Visa Incident
Artan traveled to Miami on June 8, where FIFA stationed its officials for the World Cup, but U.S. authorities denied him entry despite his valid visa and proper documentation. After additional screening, officials cited "vetting concerns" and refused admission. Somalia remains on a travel ban list implemented under former President Donald Trump's administration.
A FIFA spokesperson stated that while FIFA confirmed Artan would be unable to participate at the World Cup, the organization does not influence host country immigration decisions. They emphasized that visa approvals and entry are ultimately at the discretion of the host government.
UEFA’s Support and the Super Cup Role
Shortly after being barred from the United States, UEFA announced that Artan would referee the Super Cup. This decision follows an April agreement between UEFA and CAF to increase cooperation in areas including refereeing.
“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,” said UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin. “I am grateful to my friend CAF president Patrice Motsepe for supporting our initiative enthusiastically.”
In an interview with UEFA.com, Artan shared, “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.”
He added, “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
- Teams: Paris Saint-Germain vs Aston Villa
- Competition: UEFA Super Cup
- Venue: Red Bull Arena, Salzburg
- Date: Wednesday (specific date not provided)
