World Curling has issued a verbal warning to the Canadian men’s curling team following a heated, profanity-laced dispute with Sweden during the Winter Olympics.
The On-Ice Confrontation
During the match, Canadian player Marc Kennedy directed profanity at Swedish star Oskar Eriksson, telling him to “f*** off” after accusations of illegally touching a stone past the hog line—a violation in curling. The exchange of strong language continued throughout the game, which Canada ultimately won 8-6.
All players wear microphones, making the profane remarks audible to television audiences. The incident occurred before the evening watershed, leading broadcasters to issue apologies to viewers.
World Curling’s Official Response
Post-match, World Curling officials met with the Canadian team, delivering a warning about the language used by one player. They emphasized that further inappropriate behavior under Rule R.19 would lead to sanctions.
Rule R.19 prohibits “improper conduct, foul or offensive language, equipment abuse, or wilful damage” by team members, with potential suspensions for violations.
Clarification on Rules and Technology
Swedish players ed frustration over perceived deliberate double-touching by Canadians, particularly Kennedy. Slow-motion footage showed stones released before the hog line, but World Curling stressed that video replay does not override umpires’ decisions, which remain final.
Game umpires, positioned at each sheet’s end, cannot view every delivery. Once alerted to issues, they observe for three ends. In this game, no violations were noted during observation.
Players may retouch the stone handle before the hog line as needed. However, Rule R.5(e) requires clear release before the hog line; post-hog-line contact results in immediate removal of the stone.
