Somali referee Omar Artan, who was not admitted to the USA, will referee the UEFA Super Cup final to be played between Aston Villa and PSG.
WHAT HAPPENED
Citizens who came to welcome Artan, who went to the USA for his duty within the scope of the 2026 FIFA World Cup but had to return to Somalia after he was not allowed to enter the country, expressed their sadness for the situation experienced by the referee, to whom they gave messages of support.
It is considered that the reason why Artan, one of the prominent names among Somali referees working in international football organizations, was not admitted to the USA is related to the travel and entry restrictions imposed by the Washington administration on some countries. Comments are being made that the referee was prevented from entering the country because Somalia is among the countries in question.
In the statement made by FIFA, it was stated that the situation of the 34-year-old Somali referee cannot be changed and said, “FIFA is not involved in the immigration processes of the host country, including visa evaluations, and has been informed by the authorities that Mr. Artan’s situation will not be changed at this time.” expressions were used.
Artan, who was chosen as the best referee in Africa last year, was recorded as the first Somali referee assigned to take part in the FIFA World Cup.