Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan has received congratulations from regional and national leaders after being selected to officiate the UEFA Super Cup match between Paris Saint-Germain and Aston Villa scheduled for August 12 in Salzburg, Austria.
IGAD Executive Secretary Workneh Gebeyehu praised Artan’s achievement, describing it as a proud moment for Somalia and the region.
Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre also welcomed UEFA’s decision, saying the appointment reflects international recognition of Artan’s professionalism and excellence in football officiating.
“This well-deserved opportunity is a testament to UEFA’s commitment to recognizing excellence, nurturing talent, and promoting inclusivity in the global game,” the Prime Minister said.
Artan’s appointment comes weeks after international attention surrounding his exclusion from the FIFA World Cup officiating panel due to a U.S. entry denial.
Mustaqbal
