The controversy revolves around “double-touching” the curling stone after its release, with the Canadian men’s and women’s team, along with the British men’s team, all accused of the infraction.

Wednesday 18 February 2026 11:17, UK

The 2026 Winter Olympics have proven not to be entirely ice cool – with the curling competition rocked by allegations of “cheating”.

The controversy revolves around claims of “double-touching” the curling stone after its release, with the Canadian men’s and women’s team, along with the British men’s team, all accused of the infraction.

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When did the dispute begin?

The dispute began during an explosive match on Friday, when Sweden’s Oskar Eriksson accused Canada’s Marc Kennedy of breaking the rules by touching the rock again after initially releasing it down the ice.

Kennedy responded with an expletive-laden outburst, which later led to his team being issued with a verbal warning by the World Curling governing body for “inappropriate language”.

Marc Kennedy of Canada during the fiery match against Sweden. Pic: Reuters
Image:Marc Kennedy of Canada during the fiery match against Sweden. Pic: Reuters

Pic: AP
Image:Pic: AP

Canada won the match 8-6, however a video taken by Swedish public broadcaster SVT appeared to show a clear double-touch by Kennedy during the game.