UEFA Super Cup: PSG, Aston Villa Set to Clash as Somali Referee Artan Makes History

Somali referee Omar Artan is set to make history as the first non-European official to referee the UEFA Super Cup when Paris Saint-Germain faces Aston Villa in Salzburg, Austria. The annual match pits the winners of the Champions League against the Europa League champions.

Artan, 34, was previously prevented from officiating at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States due to unspecified vetting and national security concerns. Despite this setback, UEFA has entrusted him with the Super Cup, a decision widely applauded within the football community. Artan was recognized as Africa's top referee last season and also officiated the 2025 African Champions League final.

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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. I really appreciate the support I received throughout the world, though. I’m so grateful.

Reflecting on the World Cup exclusion, Artan described the experience as "very challenging" but expressed deep gratitude for the global support he received. "I'm so grateful," he stated, acknowledging the sympathy extended to him after years of dedicated work.

Artan has been studying both PSG and Aston Villa extensively in preparation for the match. He noted the "fantastic" standard and quality of play in European football. PSG's lineup may feature players returning from the 2026 World Cup, including Ballon d'Or winner Ousmane Dembélé, while Aston Villa, under manager Unai Emery, is undergoing squad changes after losing key midfielders.

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The standard in Europe is fantastic and the football they play is very, very good.