CAF president Motsepe hails Omar Artan after UEFA Super Cup appointment

CAF president Dr Patrice Motsepe has praised Somali referee Omar Artan following his appointment to officiate the 2026 UEFA Super Cup, describing the selection as a proud moment for Somalia and the entire African continent.

Artan was recently named as the referee for the Super Cup clash between Paris Saint-Germain and Aston Villa in Salzburg, days after missing out on the 2026 FIFA World Cup following his entry denial into the United States.

In a statement, Motsepe said Artan's achievements reflect his outstanding quality as a match official and the respect he has earned across world football.

"Omar Artan has made Somalia and the entire African continent extremely proud," Motsepe said.

"His CAF Men's Referee of the Year 2025 award and his appointment to the FIFA World Cup 2026 are a recognition of his world-class refereeing ability and the international respect he enjoys."

Motsepe also thanked UEFA president Aleksander ÄŒeferin for facilitating Artan's appointment to the Super Cup.

"I am grateful to my friend Aleksander ÄŒeferin for enabling him to officiate the UEFA Super Cup 2026," he added.

"This is a great honour for Omar Artan and African referees, and a strong example of football uniting Africa, Europe, and the world."

Artan's UEFA Super Cup appointment comes after widespread support from across the football community following his World Cup disappointment and is seen as recognition of one of Africa's leading referees.