The 2026 World Cup has propelled many people into the spotlight, but all of them were involved in the tournament, either as members of national teams or supporters. All but one.One man never even set foot on US soil, yet somehow became a star overnight. Because of his honest approach to his profession, his patriotism, and the fact that he paid the price despite having done nothing wrong. His name is Omar Artan, and he was supposed to be one of the 52 referees officiating at the World Cup. However, he wasn’t permitted to enter the United States despite holding a valid visa.
Subsequently, he was selected by UEFA to officiate the UEFA Super Cup clash between Paris Saint-Germain and Aston Villa, making him the first non-European referee to take charge of this prestigious match. In an interview with UEFA’s official website, the Somali spoke about his recent struggles, as well as the extraordinary challenge awaiting him in two days in Salzburg, Austria.
What happened to Artan in the USA was highly unexpected and disappointing. Still, it helped him see things from a different perspective and realise just how much support he had from people all around the world. “It was a very tough period. A lot of people have sympathy for me, because when someone has been working for 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.”In the end, his fortunes changed dramatically, but he has never forgotten that luck was not what got him to where he is today.I was lucky, but I have worked very hard to be here and I’m really proud. As you can imagine, I grew up in a difficult situation, but it didn’t prevent me from pursuing my dreams.”
When Artan found out he would officiate one of the biggest matches in European football and write history, he was on cloud nine. “When we got this call, it was, for me and my family, really a very, very happy moment. There’s a big Somali community in Europe and in Austria, and they are over the moon with me officiating a match like this.”
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His appointment to take charge of the UEFA Super Cup could help bridge the gap between European and African football and strengthen the bond between the governing bodies of the two confederations, UEFA and CAF.”For me, it’s fantastic that CAF is working with UEFA, the best confederation in the world for referees. The standard in Europe is fantastic and the football they play 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’s mutually beneficial. I’m honoured to be appointed for this huge match. I want to say a big thank you to UEFA, as well as to the CAF president and everybody at CAF.”
Finally, aware that his experience could offer a priceless lesson for young people worldwide, especially in Africa, he had a clear and loud message to share.”I believe that if I can succeed, anyone can. You can do whatever you want to do. Don’t ever stop dreaming.” “If you want to be a referee, it’s the best thing that you can do. So go after it and do it, and don’t stop, regardless of what happens and irrespective of people preventing you from doing your job. Learn new things every day, refine your skills and, most importantly, be fair and consistent,” Artan concluded.