Key Highlights
A Fierce Clash in Cortina
And so it goes at the Olympics—where the stakes are high, tempers run hot, and accusations fly like the rocks themselves. The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano-Cortina saw a particularly heated moment when Canada’s men’s curling team faced off against Sweden.
Heated Verbal Confrontation
After an eight-point win by Canada over Sweden in the ninth end, tensions reached boiling point on the ice. Sweden’s Oskar Eriksson accused Marc Kennedy of double-touching his rock after it had crossed the hog line. “Apparently it’s okay touching the rock after the hog line,” Eriksson was quoted saying, according to the Toronto Star.
Canada’s Defend
Kennedy and his team quickly shot back with skepticism: “Who?” “I haven’t done it once” “Don’t chirp.” The Canadian team maintained their composure as they secured victory in the 10th end, bringing their record to a perfect 3-0.
Electronic Handles Bring Clarity
The issue stemmed from Sweden’s belief that Kennedy was touching the stone rather than the handle containing the sensor. World Curling introduced electronic handles at these Olympics specifically to catch such violations. Eriksson explained, “He asked who we thought was over the hog line and I pointed out who we thought was touching the rock.” He continued, “It was obviously not a red light, but some players are touching the rock, according to us.”
World Curling’s Response
In response to the incident, World Curling stated that umpires had been set at the hog line for three ends after the issue first arose. They confirmed there were no violations or retouches during these observation periods.
The Match Continues
Both teams will return to action on Saturday, February 14. Canada faces Switzerland at 8:05 a.m., while Sweden takes on China at the same time. This incident serves as a reminder of the intensity and sometimes, the contentious nature of Olympic sports.
So there you have it—a glimpse into the drama that unfolds even in supposedly gentlemanly pursuits like curling.
