Controversy engulfs Canada’s curling squads at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy, where both men’s and women’s teams face accusations of double-touching stones, a prohibited infraction.
The Key Incidents Unfold
Swedish curler Oskar Eriksson confronted Canadian player Marc Kennedy during their men’s match, alleging Kennedy touched the stone after releasing it past the hog line. Tensions escalated into a heated exchange, with Kennedy responding sharply, telling Eriksson “where to stick it.” Canada secured an 8-6 victory, improving to 3-0 in round-robin play.
Video footage captured the apparent double-touch, sparking widespread debate. Officials monitored subsequent ends but detected no violations, thanks to new electronic handles on stones that trigger alerts for infractions.
The drama continued Saturday. An umpire halted play in the women’s match against Switzerland, accusing skip Rachel Homan of the same violation. The stone was removed, contributing to Canada’s narrow 8-7 defeat. Social media videos appeared to confirm the contact, leaving Homan stunned.
Canada’s men also fell 9-5 to Switzerland that day, with Kennedy posting the team’s lowest shot success rate.
Understanding the Double-Touch Rule
World Curling enforces strict guidelines: during forward motion, players cannot touch the stone’s granite surface. Violations result in immediate removal of the stone from play. Electronic sensors now aid umpires in enforcing this at the Olympics.
Canadian Players Respond
Kennedy dismissed the claims, stating, “If somebody said to you, ‘Hey, do you double-touch all the time?’ I honestly, in that split second of a moment, I couldn’t even tell you if I do or not.” He hinted at possible “premeditated planning to try to catch us,” adding, “They’ve come up with a plan to catch teams in the act.”
Homan rejected the allegation outright: “I don’t understand the call. I’ll never understand it. We’ve never done that.” She suggested external factors influenced the decision, insisting, “It has nothing to do with us.”
The team plans technique adjustments: “We’ll make some adjustments, release-wise, if we have to,” Kennedy noted.
Impact on Curling’s Reputation
These events challenge curling’s tradition of sportsmanship amid fierce rivalry. As the sport’s dominant nation, Canada fields powerhouse teams, yet faces scrutiny during a tough Olympic campaign. The mixed doubles squad missed medals, and the women fight for playoff spots.
Once-friendly rivals like Canada and Sweden now show clear friction, drawing global attention.
Looking Ahead
Both Canadian teams scramble for semifinal berths. A potential men’s rematch with Sweden promises high stakes. Officials and players alike emphasize adherence to rules as competition intensifies.
