Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Altan, who’s unable to take part within the World Cup as a result of he has been denied entry to the US, has been appointed to officiate the UEFA Tremendous Cup between Paris Saint-Germain and Aston Villa.
Artan, 34, was appointed as a match official for the World Cup, which will probably be held from June 11 to July 19, however was compelled to overlook the event after US authorities refused him entry regardless of having a legitimate visa.
European soccer’s governing physique introduced on Thursday that his appointment to the Tremendous Cup squad adopted discussions with the Confederation of African Soccer (CAF) and is a part of a not too long ago signed cooperation settlement between the 2 our bodies.
The match in Salzburg on August 12 will pit Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain in opposition to Europa League winners Aston Villa.
“Omar Altan has made the individuals of Somalia and your complete African continent very proud. His profitable of the 2025 CAF Umpire of the 12 months Award and his appointment as a referee for the 2026 FIFA World Cup is a testomony to his world-class officiating capacity and the worldwide respect he enjoys,” stated CAF President Patrice Motsepe.
President Donald Trump’s strict immigration insurance policies have been a sticking level for the World Cup, with Washington final yr imposing a blanket journey ban on nationals of 12 international locations, together with Somalia.
Authorities officers stated on Tuesday that Mr. Artan was denied entry as a result of his ties to “suspected members of a terrorist group.”
