Canada vs Sweden Curling Match Sees Cheating Claims and Angry Words

During an Olympic curling game, a player from Sweden said a player from Canada might have touched a moving stone. This is against the rules. There was a lot of shouting. Canada won the game.
By Newsroom | Olympics, Curling |

A recent Olympic curling match between Canada and Sweden has become the focus of controversy following accusations of cheating and subsequent heated exchanges between players. The incident occurred during the ninth end of Canada's eventual 8-6 victory, raising questions about sportsmanship and adherence to the rules of the game.

‘You can f*** off’: Heated scenes in Olympic curling clash as cheating scandal erupts - 1

Background of the Dispute

The controversy surfaced during a match where Oskar Eriksson, a Swedish player, accused Marc Kennedy of the Canadian team of improperly touching a curling stone after its release. This action, if proven, would be a violation of curling rules.

‘You can f*** off’: Heated scenes in Olympic curling clash as cheating scandal erupts - 2

  • The accusation was made by Eriksson regarding Kennedy's conduct as the stone passed the hog line.

  • Video footage later emerged, circulating on social media, which appeared to show Kennedy making contact with the stone using his index finger.

  • However, there was ambiguity in the initial claims, with Eriksson later clarifying that the concern was about touching the stone itself, not just the handle which houses a sensor.

Evidence and Observations

The primary evidence presented revolves around video footage and player accounts.

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‘You can f*** off’: Heated scenes in Olympic curling clash as cheating scandal erupts - 3

  • Video Analysis: Footage shared online shows a player, identified as Kennedy, near a curling stone. Observers suggest a hand movement near the stone after it has been released. Could this movement have affected the stone's trajectory or speed?

  • Player Statements: Oskar Eriksson's initial accusation highlighted a perceived infraction. His subsequent clarification indicates the specific concern was related to physical contact with the moving stone.

  • Rule Interpretation: Curling rules strictly prohibit touching a moving stone. The presence of a sensor in the handle is a relevant detail, but the accusation focused on contact with the stone itself.

Player Reactions and Match Outcome

The accusations led to a significant escalation of tension during the match.

‘You can f*** off’: Heated scenes in Olympic curling clash as cheating scandal erupts - 4

  • Verbal Altercation: Reports indicate that the dispute involved a heated exchange, with one player, believed to be Kennedy, responding with strong language, reportedly saying, "You can f* off."

  • Game Continuation: Despite the contentious moment, the match concluded with Canada securing an 8-6 victory over Sweden.

  • Team Standings: Information from other events indicates competitive situations in curling. For example, Bruce Mouat and Jennifer Dodds of Great Britain maintained a strong record in mixed doubles.

Broader Context of Curling Controversies

This incident is not the first time curling has faced scrutiny over alleged rule violations.

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  • Past Incidents: There have been previous instances of controversy in the sport. An article from April 2025 discusses a "curling controversy" where a player was accused of using a broom to subtly alter a stone's direction.

  • Technological Impact: The development of new equipment, like advanced curling brooms, has also been a source of discussion and even scandal, as detailed in a CBC podcast series titled "Broomgate: A Curling Scandal." This suggests ongoing debates about fairness and innovation within the sport.

Expert and Analytical Perspectives

While direct expert commentary on this specific incident was not available in the provided data, general principles of sportsmanship and rule adherence in curling are relevant.

  • The integrity of the game relies on fair play and respect for the rules. Any action that provides an unfair advantage, intentional or otherwise, undermines the competition.

  • The interpretation of video evidence can be subjective. Without clear, irrefutable proof, accusations can lead to significant disputes.

  • The emotional intensity of elite competition can contribute to heated exchanges between athletes.

Findings and Implications

The incident during the Canada-Sweden curling match highlights a significant breach of sportsmanship, characterized by accusations of cheating and aggressive verbal responses.

Read More: 2026 Winter Olympics: Some Athletes Accused of Cheating

  • Rule Violation: If confirmed, Kennedy's alleged contact with the stone constitutes a violation of curling regulations.

  • Impact on Competition: Such events can detract from the sporting spectacle and damage the reputation of the athletes and the sport.

  • Further Scrutiny: The circulation of video evidence suggests the incident will likely face further review by sporting officials to determine if any formal sanctions are warranted. The ambiguity in the footage and player statements requires careful consideration.

Sources

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What happened in the curling match?
A Swedish player said a Canadian player may have touched a moving stone. This is against curling rules. There were also angry words exchanged.
Q: Was there proof of cheating?
Video was shared that seemed to show a player near the stone. But it was not perfectly clear if the stone was touched.
Q: Did the argument stop the game?
No, the game finished. Canada won against Sweden with a score of 8-6.
Q: Is this the first time curling had problems like this?
No, there have been other arguments and questions about rules in curling before.