Canadian Curling Team Wins Olympic Gold After Controversy

Marc Kennedy overcomes accusations to lead Team Canada to victory

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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The Canadian curling team of skip Brad Jacobs, third Marc Kennedy, second Brett Gallant, and lead Ben Hebert won Olympic gold at the 2026 Winter Games in Milan, defeating the world number one team from Great Britain. This came after Kennedy was earlier accused of double touching his rock during the tournament, leading to a heated exchange with an opponent. However, the team's strong chemistry and focus allowed them to overcome the adversity and clinch the gold medal.

Why it matters

Curling is a beloved sport in Canada, and this Olympic gold medal victory is a major source of national pride. The team's ability to overcome a controversy and maintain their focus demonstrates the importance of team chemistry and resilience in high-pressure sports competitions.

The details

The Canadian team, led by skip Brad Jacobs, defeated the 2022 Olympic silver medalist and world number one team from Great Britain, skipped by Bruce Mouat, by a score of 9-6 in the gold medal game. Earlier in the tournament, Canadian third Marc Kennedy had been accused of double touching his rock by Swedish opponent Oskar Eriksson, leading to a heated exchange. However, the Canadian team was able to maintain their focus and chemistry, as described by their coach Paul Webster, who emphasized the importance of open communication and accountability within the team.

  • The 2026 Olympic Winter Games took place in Milan, Italy.
  • The gold medal curling match was played on Saturday.

The players

Brad Jacobs

The skip of the Canadian curling team, who led them to Olympic gold. Jacobs had previously won Olympic gold in 2014.

Marc Kennedy

The third on the Canadian curling team, who was earlier accused of double touching his rock during the tournament, but was able to overcome the controversy and help lead his team to victory.

Brett Gallant

The second on the Canadian curling team.

Ben Hebert

The lead on the Canadian curling team, who had previously won Olympic gold in 2010.

Bruce Mouat

The skip of the British curling team, who won the silver medal.

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What they’re saying

“I think the biggest thing when you have these four adult males with the resumes that they came into this team with, it's the ability to be honest with each other and be accountable both to yourself but to your teammates.”

— Paul Webster, Canadian curling coach

What’s next

The Canadian curling team will be celebrated for their Olympic gold medal victory upon their return to Canada.

The takeaway

The Canadian curling team's ability to overcome adversity and maintain their focus and team chemistry allowed them to win the Olympic gold medal, demonstrating the importance of resilience and camaraderie in high-pressure sports competitions.