World Curling Enhances Officiating Following Sweden’s Cheating Accusation Against Canada
World Curling has intensified its officiating measures following accusations of cheating during a recent Olympic curling match between Sweden and Canada. The incident occurred during the Men’s Round Robin session on February 13, 2026, at the Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy.
Accusations and Tensions Rise
During a fiercely contested game, Canada triumphed over Sweden with a score of 8-6. However, Sweden’s team, led by notable player Niklas Edin, accused their Canadian rivals of double touching the stone during play. This allegation sparked considerable tension on the ice.
Enhanced Monitoring by World Curling
In response to these accusations, World Curling announced that officials would closely monitor the matches for any rule violations. The organization clarified that, starting the afternoon session on February 14, two officials would patrol the sheets to observe players’ deliveries more effectively.
- Officials will monitor all four sheets.
- Focus on adherence to delivery rules.
World Curling also confirmed existing technology to track violations. They introduced electronic handles on stones that light up if players contact the stone beyond the hog line. However, the current issue involved players allegedly touching the granite, which lacks detection sensors.
Controversial Exchanges and Warnings
The tension escalated further when team members had a heated exchange. Canadian third Marc Kennedy and Swedish third Oskar Eriksson confronted each other late in the game. Eriksson claimed he could provide video evidence of Kennedy’s alleged infractions. The situation prompted World Curling to give a verbal warning to the Canadian team regarding unsuitable language used in the exchange.
Curiously, Curling Canada CEO Nolan Thiessen emphasized that such exchanges often occur in competitive sports. He noted that emotions run high, and unfavorable comments can arise, especially in high-stakes environments like the Olympics.
Media Implications and Previous Concerns
Swedish media later released footage of the incident capturing Kennedy’s potential infraction. This representation of the game raised questions about broadcasting regulations and oversight at the Olympics. Sweden’s head coach, Fredrik Lindberg, expressed that concerns about this issue were not new but had become magnified due to the Olympic stage.
As the event continues, World Curling has reiterated the importance of upholding the integrity of the sport. They are committed to ensuring compliance with the rules to maintain fair play throughout the competition.
