UEFA has appointed Somalia referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan to officiate the 2026 UEFA Super Cup
The match, scheduled for 12 August 2026 in Salzburg, will see Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain face Europa League champions Aston Villa in a curtain-raiser to the European football season.
Artan’s appointment comes in the wake of controversial period surrounding his international refereeing career. The 34-year-old was previously set to officiate at the FIFA World Cup, but was denied entry into the United States amid reported vetting concerns. Following the incident, he was removed from the tournament officiating list.
Reports surrounding the decision cited alleged security-related concerns of which USA has placed visa restrictions on Somalia.
FIFA acknowledged the situation, describing it as unfortunate, while emphasising that host nations retain authority over immigration and entry procedures.
Upon his return to Mogadishu, Artan received a public welcome from reflecting his status as one of Somalia’s most prominent sporting figures.
Despite the setback, UEFA’s decision to entrust him with one of its most prestigious fixtures is being widely interpreted as a strong endorsement of his refereeing credentials and international reputation.
Artan was named Africa’s top male referee in 2025 and has steadily built a career, including becoming the first Somali official to referee at the Africa Cup of Nations and to take charge of a CAF intercontinental club final.
His latest appointment also makes him the first Somali referee to oversee a major UEFA final, further cementing his place Somalia football.