The 2026 UEFA Super Cup will be officiated by renowned African referee Omar Artan, it has been revealed.
Despite being chosen as one of the seven World Cup representatives for the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Artan was refused a visa into the United States earlier this week.
FIFA have already stated that the decision will not be reversed. He was supposed to be the first Somali to officiate at the tournament, but instead he had to endure an unsuccessful 11-hour immigration examination.
After being welcomed as a hero upon his forced return to Somalia, Artan is now set to handle one of the most important games in European club football.
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According to talkSPORT, Artan will officiate the Super Cup between European champions Paris Saint-Germain and Europa League winners Aston Villa on August 12, according to UEFA.
UEFA Release Statement
UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin said: “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.
“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.”
CAF president Dr Patrice Motsepe added: “Omar Artan has made Somalia and the entire people of the African Continent, extremely proud.
“His receipt of the CAF Men’s Referee of the Year Award 2025 and his appointment as a referee of the FIFA World Cup 2026 are a recognition of his world-class refereeing ability and the international respect that he enjoys.”
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