UEFA Super Cup: Omar Artan speaks out ahead of the final

12.08.26 15:00 UEFA Super Cup

Paris Saint-Germain

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Aston Villa

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After being turned away from the United States, where he was set to officiate at the 2026 World Cup, Somali referee Omar Artan is finally back in the spotlight this Wednesday in Salzburg, Austria. He has been appointed to take charge of the UEFA Super Cup between PSG, the Champions League winners, and Aston Villa, the Europa League champions.

This appointment is certainly a special one for the Somali official. "A lot of people have shown me support, because when you've worked for so many years to achieve something and then can't do it, it's extremely tough. Still, I truly appreciate all the support I've received from around the world. I'm really grateful for that," Omar Artan told UEFA's official website in an interview.

Omar Artan's presence with the whistle at this European final is also part of the memorandum of understanding signed at the end of April between UEFA and CAF. The agreement aims to strengthen cooperation between the two bodies in several areas, particularly refereeing. The Somali referee is well aware of the significance of this appointment and is thrilled to represent his continent on such a stage: "The level in Europe is outstanding and the football played here is of very, very high quality. I think CAF referees have a lot to learn from UEFA, just as UEFA referees have much to learn from CAF. It's a mutually beneficial relationship. I am honored to be appointed to officiate such a major match (...) There is a large Somali community in Europe and in Austria, and they are over the moon at the thought of me refereeing a game like this."

Read also: UEFA Super Cup final: date, time, and TV broadcast for PSG vs. Aston Villa

Omar Artan now has a new opportunity to make history.

Joshua SOSSOU

Editorfr, en, ar

As a sports fan, and particularly a football fan, I've been putting my writing talent to good use for a number of years now to promote African talent and the continent's football in general. On Foot Africa, enjoy reading each of my lines.

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