Denied World Cup entry, Somali referee Artan to officiate UEFA Super Cup

He was forced to miss the World Cup after US authorities refused him entry despite having a valid visa

Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan, who had been expected to officiate at matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup but was denied entry to the United States, is received as he arrives at the Aden Abdulle Osman International Airport in Mogadishu, Somalia Jun 10, 2026. REUTERS

Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan, who is unable to take part in the World Cup after being denied entry to the United States, has been appointed to officiate next month's UEFA Super Cup between Paris St Germain and Aston Villa.

Artan, 34, was named among match officials for the Jun 11-Jul 19 World Cup but was forced to miss the tournament after US authorities refused him entry despite having a valid visa.

European football's governing body said on Thursday that his appointment for the Super Cup followed discussions with the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and formed part of a recently signed cooperation agreement between the two bodies.

The Aug 12 match in Salzburg pits Champions League winners Paris St Germain against Europa League holders Aston Villa.