Somali referee to officiate UEFA Super Cup, first non‑European official

Somali referee Omar Artan is set to become the first non‑European official to take charge of the UEFA Super Cup, the annual clash that pits the winners of the Champions League against the Europa League champions. The appointment, confirmed by UEFA on Monday, marks a historic milestone for the governing body’s effort to broaden its officiating pool beyond the continent’s traditional pool of referees.

Artan, who has risen through the ranks of the Somali Football Federation and gained experience in international fixtures under FIFA’s development programmes, will oversee the match scheduled for August 15 in Istanbul. UEFA’s decision reflects its ongoing commitment to diversify the referee roster and provide opportunities for officials from emerging football nations, while maintaining the high standards required for one of Europe’s marquee events.