NFL Announces Officiating Crew for Super Bowl LX Championship Game
As global anticipation builds for Super Bowl LX, the National Football League's premier championship event, attention is turning not only to the athletes but also to the critical role of the officiating team. Every decision made on the field can dramatically influence the outcome of this high-stakes contest. The NFL has officially revealed the officials who will oversee the championship clash between the New England Patriots and the Seattle Seahawks, featuring several noteworthy details that fans should be aware of.
Shawn Smith Named Lead Referee for Super Bowl 2026
The referee for Super Bowl LX will be Shawn Smith, marking a significant milestone as his first appointment as the lead referee in a Super Bowl. Smith, who began his NFL officiating career in 2015 as an umpire, was promoted to referee in 2018 and has since built a reputation for consistency and fairness. His selection for this role underscores the league's confidence in his capabilities and leadership on football's grandest stage.
Smith will be at the helm of the action on Sunday, February 8, 2026, at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California, where the Patriots and Seahawks will compete for the coveted Lombardi Trophy. Although this is his debut as the head referee in a Super Bowl, Smith is no stranger to high-pressure postseason games. Throughout his career, he has officiated numerous playoff matches, including Wild Card, Divisional, and Conference Championship contests, demonstrating his readiness for this elevated responsibility.
Prior to this appointment, Smith served as an alternate referee in previous Super Bowl games, meaning he was part of the officiating team but not the primary referee on the field. His promotion to lead referee for Super Bowl LX reflects the NFL's trust in his extensive experience and proven track record in managing crucial game situations.
Elite Officiating Crew Assembled for the Big Game
Unlike regular-season matchups, the Super Bowl officiating team is meticulously assembled from the league's top-performing officials, creating an 'All-Star' group dedicated to ensuring fairness and accuracy. The full roster of officials who will work alongside Shawn Smith at Super Bowl LX includes:
- Umpire: Roy Ellison (No. 81)
- Down Judge: Dana McKenzie (No. 8)
- Line Judge: Julian Mapp (No. 10)
- Field Judge: Jason Ledet (No. 72)
- Side Judge: Eugene Hall (No. 103)
- Back Judge: Greg Steed (No. 12)
- Replay Official: Andrew Lambert
- Replay Assistant: Julie Johnson
This distinguished crew comprises both seasoned veterans who have previously worked Super Bowls and officials experiencing their first championship game, blending expertise with fresh perspectives. In addition to the main team, the NFL has designated alternate officials who are prepared to step in if necessary, covering various on-field and replay roles to ensure seamless game operations even under unexpected circumstances.
Heightened Scrutiny on Officiating in the Super Bowl Spotlight
Super Bowl officiating always attracts intense scrutiny, with millions of viewers worldwide monitoring not only player performances but also how referees handle pivotal moments, penalty calls, and replay reviews. With Shawn Smith and his elite crew leading the proceedings, the NFL aims to deliver a clear, fair, and thrilling championship game that upholds the integrity of the sport.
As Super Bowl Sunday approaches, fans, players, and analysts will be closely observing every detail, recognizing that on football's most celebrated night, the officials are an integral part of the narrative, shaping the legacy of this historic event.
