Somali referee Artan urges officials to dream big ahead of UEFA Super Cup history

Omar Artan is set to become the first non-European referee to officiate the UEFA Super Cup, a historic achievement for African football. The 34-year-old Somali official will take charge of the match between Paris St Germain and Aston Villa in Salzburg.

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never stop dreaming

Artan has already established himself as a leading referee in Africa, having previously officiated the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Champions League final and earning the title of CAF Men's Referee of the Year. His appointment to the UEFA Super Cup is facilitated by a cooperation agreement between UEFA and CAF, aimed at fostering greater collaboration.

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This is a great honour for Omar Artan and for African referees

"This is a great honour for Omar Artan and for African referees," said CAF president Patrice Motsepe. Artan's journey has not been without challenges. He was previously barred from entering the United States for the World Cup despite holding a valid visa, a situation he described as "very tough."

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It was a very tough period. A lot of people have sympathy for me, because when someone has been working a lot of years and is supposed to do something, and then can’t do it, it’s very challenging.

Despite such setbacks, Artan remains an inspiration. "I believe that if I can succeed, anyone can," he stated. "Don’t ever stop dreaming." His participation in the UEFA Super Cup marks a significant milestone, underscoring his rise in the international football officiating community.

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I believe that if I can succeed, anyone can. Don’t ever stop dreaming.