Tensions boiled over at the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics after Canada’s men’s curling team was accused of cheating during a heated match against Sweden. The clash took place on 13 February and ended with Canada winning 8–6.
The controversy began when Sweden’s Oskar Eriksson accused Canadian player Marc Kennedy of committing a “double touch” while delivering a stone. The accusation sparked a furious exchange between the athletes, with Kennedy responding angrily on the ice.
Under rules set by World Curling, a double touch before the hog line is allowed. However, touching the stone after the hog line can result in a violation. Officials closely monitored the situation during the match.
After reviewing the play, judges said they could not confirm any rule breach. No infractions were issued against the Canadian team, and the result of the match stood.
Following the game, Curling Canada released a statement supporting its team. The organisation said officials carefully observed the players after the complaint and found no hog line violations or illegal stone touches.
However, the Canadian team did receive a verbal warning for the language used during the heated exchange. Curling Canada said it remains committed to fair play, respect, and sportsmanship.
World Curling later clarified the rules again in a public update, outlining what is and is not allowed during a stone’s release. Meanwhile, Swedish team leader Fredrik Lindberg confirmed that Sweden would not request a formal investigation into the incident.
The episode has added to a week of high drama at the Winter Games, showing that even curling can deliver intense and emotional moments on the Olympic stage.
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