The 2026-27 curling season kicked off with the Co-op Invitational in Victoria, marking the start of the Grand Slam events. Canadian teams led by Brad Jacobs and Rachel Homan, who secured Olympic gold and bronze in Italy last winter, are still going strong. However, the new Olympic cycle brings significant changes both on and off the ice.
Notable retirements include veteran skip Brad Gushue, who ended his illustrious career with several championships and Olympic medals. Other retirements include Sweden’s Nik Edin and Switzerland’s Silvana Tirinzoni. Additionally, Canadian curler E.J. Harnden and skip Kaitlyn Lawes are stepping back from the sport for various reasons.
As the focus shifts towards the 2030 Olympics, several roster changes have taken place. Mark Nichols joined skip Matt Dunstone’s team, while Kerri Einarson made adjustments to her lineup after winning the Scotties Tournament of Hearts. Various other player movements have also occurred across international teams.
In broadcasting news, there have been significant changes with retirements of iconic figures like Vic Rauter and Rob Faulds. New voices, including Darren Dupont, are stepping in for the upcoming season’s coverage. The Grand Slams and the Rock League will return to CBC for coverage this season.
The curling calendar has been rearranged, with all Grand Slam events scheduled before Christmas to make way for the Rock League’s full season starting in January. The Rock League, with its unique format and rules, aims to engage fans in a fresh way after a successful debut last spring.
The upcoming season includes a mix of tournaments and championships leading up to the Scotties, Brier, and world championships. Exciting events like the mixed doubles worlds and the milestone 100th edition of the Brier are on the horizon, promising captivating curling action.