Canada vs Sweden Curling Controversy at Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics

Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics witnessed heated scenes during the men’s curling round robin match between Canada and Sweden. The contest ended with Canada securing an 8-6 victory, but the spotlight shifted to a cheating allegation involving Canadian curler Marc Kennedy.

What Happened During the Canada vs Sweden Curling Match

The controversy began when the Swedish team accused Marc Kennedy of illegally touching his curling stone after releasing the handle. According to the complaint, Kennedy gave the stone a secondary push with his finger as it approached the hogline.

In Olympic curling rules, players must release the stone before it reaches the hogline. A sensor system flashes red if the stone is not released in time. Sweden claimed that although the handle was released properly, Kennedy touched the granite stone afterward, which they believed violated regulations.

Video Review and On-Ice Tensions

Slow-motion footage appeared to show Kennedy’s index finger making contact with the stone near the hogline. However, any prior deliveries could not be reviewed during the match.

Following Sweden’s complaint, officials stationed an umpire at the hogline to monitor deliveries for the next three ends. No violations were recorded during that observation period.

The situation escalated as both teams exchanged heated words across the ice. Kennedy responded strongly to the accusation, expressing frustration at being labeled a cheater after decades in professional curling and multiple Olympic appearances.

Statements From Both Teams

Sweden’s Oskar Eriksson stated that the team wanted a fair and honest game. He maintained that, in their view, the Canadian player poked the stone after releasing the handle, which they considered improper.

Marc Kennedy rejected the allegation and said he did not appreciate being accused of cheating after 25 years on tour and four Olympic Games. The verbal exchange intensified late in the match as Canada maintained its lead.

World Curling Official Response

World Curling released a statement explaining that the issue of a second touch was brought to the umpire’s attention. Officials spoke with both teams and followed official protocol by assigning game umpires at the hogline for monitoring.

The governing body confirmed that no hogline violations or retouches were observed during the monitoring phase. After the match, officials also met Canadian representatives and issued a verbal warning regarding language used on the ice. Further misconduct could result in additional sanctions.

Match Result and Tournament Impact

Canada secured an 8-6 win over Sweden in the men’s round robin. The result left Sweden at 0-3 in the standings, making qualification for the knockout stage more challenging.

The Canada vs Sweden curling controversy has become one of the most talked-about moments of the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics so far. Fans and analysts continue to debate whether the contact was intentional or incidental.

Understanding the Hogline Rule in Olympic Curling

What This Means for the Winter Olympics 2026

The Winter Olympics 2026 have already delivered intense competition and dramatic moments. This curling dispute highlights the importance of sportsmanship and strict adherence to technical rules.

As round robin matches continue, teams remain focused on securing knockout stage spots. Canada’s victory strengthens its position, while Sweden faces pressure in upcoming fixtures.

Conclusion

The Canada vs Sweden curling incident at Milan Cortina 2026 has added drama to the Olympic tournament. Officials followed protocol, no formal violation was confirmed during observation, and Canada maintained its win. The event serves as a reminder of how closely every move is scrutinized at the Olympic level.