Omar Artan embraces Super Cup role after World Cup setback

Omar Artan has described his appointment to Wednesday’s Super Cup as a source of pride and relief after what he called a tough period following his exclusion from this summer’s World Cup in the United States.

A landmark appointment for Artan

The Somali referee will oversee Paris Saint-Germain against Aston Villa in Salzburg, a significant moment both personally and professionally. Uefa handed Artan the match only days after he was unable to travel to the US to work at the World Cup.

His selection also carries wider significance. Artan is set to become the first non-European official to referee Uefa’s annual meeting between the winners of the Champions League and the Europa League. For a referee widely regarded among Africa’s leading officials, it is a notable recognition on a major stage.

Artan said the appointment was a particularly emotional moment for him and his family. He also pointed to the reaction among Somali communities in Europe and Austria, saying the support around his involvement in such a high-profile fixture had been deeply felt.

Speaking out after US exclusion

Artan has now spoken publicly for the first time about the episode that kept him out of the World Cup. He was denied entry at Miami international airport in June, a decision that drew controversy.

Fifa president Gianni Infantino indicated at the time that he could not override the administration of Donald Trump. Somalia is among 12 countries on a travel ban list introduced by the US president last year.

Reflecting on the fallout, Artan said the experience had been difficult, especially after years of work leading towards the opportunity to officiate at the tournament. He also expressed gratitude for the support he received from around the world during that period.

Preparation for PSG v Aston Villa

Artan has continued his preparations by taking charge of league matches in Somalia and in the Kuwaiti Premier League. He said his work before a game goes well beyond fitness and match-day management, with detailed study of the teams forming a central part of his routine.

According to Artan, that process includes watching matches closely, researching tactical approaches and understanding player behaviour. With Paris Saint-Germain and Aston Villa meeting in a major European curtain-raiser, that preparation will be tested on one of the most visible assignments of his career.

A wider African presence on the officiating team

Artan will not be the only African official involved on Wednesday. He will be joined by assistants Liban Abdoulrazack Ahmed of Djibouti and Stephen Eleazar Onyango Yiembe of Kenya.

• Referee: Omar Artan (Somalia)
• Assistant referee: Liban Abdoulrazack Ahmed (Djibouti)
• Assistant referee: Stephen Eleazar Onyango Yiembe (Kenya)

That collective presence adds another layer to an already historic appointment. After the disappointment of missing the World Cup, Artan now has the chance to take charge of one of Uefa’s showpiece fixtures — and to do so in a role that breaks new ground.