Canadian Officials Selected to Officiate at 2026 Olympic Winter Games in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo
Four Western Hockey League officials have been selected to officiate at the 2026 Olympic Winter Games in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. Mike Campbell and Cianna Lieffers are among the Canadian referees chosen, while Alex Clarke and Tarrington Wyonzek will serve as linespersons. This prestigious opportunity is a testament to their dedication and performance in the Hockey Canada system, with Campbell having previously officiated at the 2022 Olympics in Beijing.
Campbell, a seasoned official with experience at various high-profile events, will be making his second Olympic appearance. Clarke, the first woman to officiate a WHL game, and Lieffers, both of whom officiated in Beijing in 2022, have also officiated at other significant tournaments such as the AHL, PWHL, and IIHF Women’s World Championship. Wyonzek, who has officiated at events like the IIHF World Championship and Memorial Cup, will be making his Olympic debut.
The selection process for the Olympic officials began in 2023 as part of the IIHF’s Road to Milano program. The officials underwent rigorous evaluation during domestic competitions, national events, and various IIHF tournaments before being chosen for the prestigious assignment. Officiating at the Olympic Games is considered the pinnacle of an amateur official’s career, and the selected officials have worked diligently towards this goal for the past four years.
Preparation camps for the men’s and women’s officials will be held in Buffalo, N.Y., and Europe, respectively, to ensure they are ready for the Olympic tournament. This opportunity is a testament to the determination and skill of these officials, and they are honored to represent Canada on the international stage at the 2026 Olympic Winter Games.