Somali referee who was refused entry into US for World Cup picked to officiate Uefa Super Cup

Key Points:

• Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan, barred from entering the US for the World Cup due to alleged security concerns, has been appointed by Uefa to officiate the Super Cup match between Paris Saint-Germain and Aston Villa.
• Artan, named Africa’s referee of the year in 2025 and recognized as one of the world’s top referees, was denied entry to the US despite holding the correct visa, sparking criticism of the Trump administration and Fifa over inclusivity failures.
• Uefa emphasized its commitment to unity, equality, and non-discrimination in appointing Artan, highlighting his distinguished career and recent accolades, including officiating the 2025/26 Caf Champions League final.
• Visa issues have affected other football figures ahead of the World Cup in the US, Canada, and Mexico, with Iranian team staff also denied entry, drawing criticism of Fifa’s handling of the situation.
• Uefa president Aleksandr Ceferin praised Artan’s skills and experience, framing his appointment as a gesture of respect and solidarity, while indirectly challenging Fifa president Gianni Infantino amid ongoing tensions between the two organizations.