Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan will officiate the UEFA Super Cup between Paris Saint-Germain and Aston Villa on Wednesday, after being denied entry into the United States and missing the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The 34-year-old referee was reportedly turned away at Miami International Airport despite being selected by FIFA for the World Cup.
Artan described the experience as a difficult period but said he remained proud of his journey and grateful for the opportunity to officiate the UEFA Super Cup.
The referee, who became the first Somali official to officiate at the Africa Cup of Nations in 2024, said his appointment was a very happy moment for him and his family.
UEFA said the appointment reflects its growing cooperation with the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
