Edin's Swedish Team Wins World Curling Championship Opener

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Niklas Edin's Swedish curling team kicked off the 2026 World Men's Curling Championship in Ogden, Utah, with a 6-5 victory over Scotland's team skipped by Ross Whyte. This win is significant, as it comes after Edin's team had their worst-ever result in a major championship at the recent Olympic Winter Games, where they finished in ninth place.

Why it matters

Edin's victory hints at evolving dynamics within the sport of curling, particularly regarding team selection and the pressure following major tournaments like the Olympics. Scotland's decision to send the Lag Whyte team rather than the dominant Bruce Mouat team that won Olympic silver suggests a broader trend of nations strategically choosing which team to send to major championships.

The details

The match between Sweden and Scotland was tightly contested, with both teams trading points throughout. Sweden initially took a two-point lead, but Scotland quickly responded. The game remained tied at 4-4 at halftime, and 5-5 after eight ends. The decisive moment came when Edin executed a double takeout, leaving Sweden with the hammer – the last stone advantage – in the tenth end. A technical issue with the final Scottish stone, resulting in a double touch and a red light, ultimately secured the win for Sweden without Edin needing to play his final stone.

• The 2026 World Men's Curling Championship is being held in Ogden, Utah, from March 28 to April 5, 2026.
• Niklas Edin's Swedish team won their opening match against Scotland on March 28, 2026.

What’s next

The 2026 World Men's Curling Championship will continue in Ogden, Utah, with teams competing to determine the overall champion. Edin's Swedish team will look to build on their opening victory as they face other top contenders in the tournament.