Referee Excluded from World Cup Appointed to UEFA Super Cup Final

In a notable turn of events, referee Omar Artan, who faced exclusion from the 2026 World Cup due to entry complications into the United States, has been appointed to officiate the upcoming UEFA Super Cup final. This decision places Artan at the helm of a major European club competition, highlighting his continued standing in international football despite his World Cup setback.

The appointment comes after Artan was reportedly denied entry into the U.S., which prevented his participation in the continental qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup. Global football outlet Goal.com reported on May 12 that Artan has been selected as the head referee for the prestigious match between Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Aston Villa.

This appointment signifies a significant opportunity for Artan to officiate at the highest level of European club football. The UEFA Super Cup final is a highly anticipated event, pitting the winners of the UEFA Champions League and the UEFA Europa League against each other. Artan's selection underscores his qualifications and the trust placed in him by UEFA, even as he navigates the disappointment of missing out on the World Cup stage.