Somali referee officiates UEFA Super Cup after US entry ban

Somali referee Omar Artan officiated the UEFA Super Cup match, where Paris Saint-Germain defeated Aston Villa 2-1 in Salzburg. This appointment came after a challenging period for Artan, who had been denied entry into the United States for World Cup matches due to alleged connections with terrorist organizations.

“

This was a very difficult period. Many people showed me sympathy, because it is very difficult when someone who has worked for many years and is expected to do something, cannot do it. But I really appreciate the support I received around the world, I am very grateful.

Artan, 34, described the situation as "very difficult" but expressed gratitude for the global support he received. His officiating team included Liban Abdoulrazack Ahmed from Djibouti and Stephen Eleazar Onyango Yiembe from Kenya, with Slovenian referee Rade Obrenovič serving as the fourth official. The match marked a significant moment for Artan, allowing him to perform on a stage he felt he deserved.

UEFA, under the leadership of Aleksander Čeferin, appointed Artan as part of a memorandum of understanding with the Confederation of African Football (CAF). This collaboration aims to foster mutual learning and development between European and African referees. Artan believes this partnership is highly beneficial, allowing both CAF and UEFA referees to learn from each other's standards and football quality.

“

It is fantastic for me that CAF cooperates with UEFA, the best confederation in the world for referees. The standards in Europe are fantastic, and the football they play there is very, very good. I believe that CAF referees can learn a lot from UEFA, and UEFA referees can also learn a lot from CAF. It is beneficial for both sides.

Following the match, legendary goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon congratulated PSG on their victory and specifically commended Artan, stating on social media, "Football offered him the stage he deserved tonight." Artan was also presented with a medal by Čeferin after the game.

“

Congratulations to PSG for another great achievement! Special congratulations to Omar Artan. Football offered him the stage he deserved tonight.