Referees Confirmed for British & Irish Lions Tests – One Has Survived a Stabbing on the Pitch

Competition: Get a Chance to Watch the Lions in Australia

Two make history as the first officials from their respective countries to referee a Lions test match. For Amashukeli, the Sydney fixture will also mark his 30th test cap as a referee.

Supporting the officiating team will be Television Match Officials Richard Kelly (New Zealand), Eric Gauzins (France), and Marius Jonker (South Africa). O’Keeffe returns to Lions duty, having previously refereed the second test of the 2021 series in South Africa.

Six referees in total will officiate Lions matches across the tour, including James Doleman and Paul Williams (both New Zealand), and Pierre Brousset (France). Doleman will oversee the Lions’ opening fixture against Argentina in Dublin on 20 June.

Appointments were made based on experience, form, and neutrality. World Rugby has emphasised a collaborative approach between referees and coaches for the July window, aiming to foster consistency and alignment ahead of Rugby World Cup 2027 in Australia.

A qualified ophthalmologist off the field, Ben O’Keeffe is one of the world’s most experienced referees.

Since making his test debut in 2016, he has officiated at multiple Rugby World Cups and was in charge of the second test during the 2021 British & Irish Lions tour to South Africa.

Known for his calm authority and clear communication, O’Keeffe brings extensive experience to the opening test in Brisbane.

Andrea Piardi will make history in Melbourne as the first Italian to referee a British & Irish Lions test.

A rising star in the officiating world, Piardi has impressed in both the United Rugby Championship and international fixtures, earning praise for his control at the breakdown and consistency at the scrum.

His appointment is a major milestone for Italian refereeing on the global stage.

A trailblazer for Georgian rugby, Nika Amashukeli has rapidly become one of the most respected referees in the game.

A former player whose career was cut short by injury, he transitioned to officiating and made his test debut in 2021.

The third test in Sydney will be his 30th at international level, and he becomes the first Georgian to referee a Lions test—capping a remarkable journey for both himself and his country.

12 years have passed since Warren Gatland’s men roared to a famous series win over Australia, but how well do you really remember the iconic 2013 British & Irish Lions squad?

From legendary leaders to surprise selections, we’ve lined up every player from that unforgettable tour. All you have to do is name them. No pressure, right?

Take the quiz below and prove your rugby brain still bites.

? Scroll down and get cracking – how many can you get without cheating?