Olympic Curling Explained: Scoring, Strategy, and Scheduling Demystified

Curling has a rich history in the Olympics, being a prominent feature since the inaugural Winter Games in 1924 in Chamonix, France. For the upcoming 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics, the competition will take place at the Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium, a facility established in 1955 for the Olympic Winter Games.

Team USA in Olympic Curling

The United States will participate in all three curling events during the 2026 Olympics. The teams include:

• Team Casper, led by Danny Casper, in the men’s event.
• Team Peterson, headed by Tabitha Peterson, in women’s curling.
• Mixed doubles team featuring Cory Thiesse and Korey Dropkin.

Historically, Team USA has achieved notable success in curling, securing two Olympic medals. The most recent achievement was a gold medal by Team Shuster during the PyeongChang 2018 Winter Olympics. Additionally, Team USA earned a bronze medal in the Torino 2006 Winter Olympics.

Understanding the Game of Curling

Curling is often likened to “chess on ice.” Players strategically slide granite stones across a sheet of ice towards a target area known as “the house.” The objective is to position the stones as close to the target center as possible.

Scoring System in Olympic Curling

Curling scoring is straightforward. Only one team can score points in each round, known as an “end.” Here’s how the scoring works:

• The stone closest to the center of the house earns one point.
• Additional points are granted for each stone nearer to the center than the opponent’s closest stone.
• No points are awarded for stones that rest outside of the house.

The Hammer: A Critical Advantage

The term “hammer” refers to the team that plays the last stone in an end, allowing them to strategize based on previous moves. Typically, teams alternate who has the hammer, and if the end concludes without any scores, the team with the hammer retains it, except in mixed doubles where it changes if no points are scored.

Curling Power Play

In mixed doubles, teams have the option to call a power play once during a game. This tactic, announced at the start of an end, permits teams to determine where pre-placed stones will be positioned, adding an extra layer of strategy.

Looking Ahead: 2026 Winter Olympics Curling Schedule

The 2026 Winter Olympics will showcase a thrilling curling schedule. Fans can look forward to witnessing top-level competition from countries around the globe, including strong performances from Team USA.

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