🏆 Referee announced for 2026 #SuperCup!
We're pleased to share that Somali referee Omar Artan will officiate the highly anticipated match between PSG and Aston Villa in Salzburg.
Omar Abdikadir Artan, a young Somali referee, worked hard to reach the highest level of African football officiating. His dream was to officiate at the FIFA World Cup, but a visa denial prevented him from attending. A heartbreaking moment for him, Somalia, and football fans
Somali referee Omar Artan, who was set to be the first from his country to officiate at the World Cup finals, has been denied entry to the United States.
🚨🗣️ 𝗡𝗘𝗪: Omar Abdulkadir Artan (Somalian referee who was refused entry to the USA despite his role at the World Cup):
"Despite the circumstances, I'm in good spirits and focusing on the upcoming challenges in my career."
"I want to thank the football family for all the messages, and I wish my peers the very best for the World Cup. I look forward to seeing them again."
"I want to thank FIFA and CAF for all their support, and I promise to continue improving my level and focusing on the future."
FIFA confirm Omar Abdulkadir Artan can’t officiate at the World Cup after being denied entry into the United States.
The Somali referee is one of Africa’s most respected officials. Somalia's Ministry of Youth and Sports say Artan travelled with a valid US visa.
Yet Somalia is on a travel ban list introduced by President Trump’s administration.
🗣️ “FIFA is not involved in host country immigration processes, including visa adjudications, and has been informed by authorities that Mr Artan's status will not be changed at present.
“In line with previous FIFA events, a host government ultimately determines who receives a visa and who is admitted into their country.”
I can’t believe it, man. My heart can’t take this. My soul can’t take it, Pep.
It hurts me to say goodbye.
Thank you for everything you did for us the trophies, the passion, the energy You changed world football forever.
You’re leaving behind a legacy. @PepTeam