Double‑Touch Allegations Spark International Debate Swedish curler Oskar Eriksson accused Canadian Marc Kennedy of “double‑touching” a stone during the Games, and a day later Canadian women’s skip Rachel Homan faced the same charge after Canada’s 8‑7 loss to Switzerland [2]. World Curling Federation rules explicitly forbid any contact with the granite part of a stone, mandating removal of the stone if touched during forward motion [2]. Similar accusations have been lodged against Great Britain’s men’s team, where Bobby Lammie saw a stone removed for the same violation [2].

World Curling Issues Warning Without Formal Cheating Charge The federation issued a verbal warning to Kennedy for using foul language during the dispute and reiterated that touching the stone results in removal, but stopped short of labeling any athlete as a cheater [2]. Officials were dispatched to monitor stone releases, although the organization does not employ video review for such infractions [2]. The warning underscores the sport’s emphasis on sportsmanship while leaving the alleged violations technically unpunished [2].

Dropkin Calls Controversy Unnecessary and Defends Peers Speaking to CBS News on Feb. 17, U.S. curler Korey Dropkin described the double‑touch uproar as “unfortunate” and “bigger than needed,” noting that the practice has been common among Olympians for seasons without prior criticism [1]. He defended Kennedy as “one of the greatest curlers of all time,” condemned the foul language used in the exchange, and expressed empathy for veteran athletes now under intense scrutiny [1]. Dropkin’s remarks aim to shift focus from alleged cheating to the broader issue of media sensationalism [1].

Public Reaction Divides Between Disappointment and Potential Interest Canadian fans posted mixed reactions, with some lamenting a “sad day for Canadian sport” while others, like instructor Ankara Leonard, suggested the controversy could boost public interest in curling [2]. A Globe and Mail opinion warned the incidents risk tarnishing Canada’s curling reputation, urging athletes to act as “bigger men and women” [2]. The debate highlights how national pride and the sport’s global influence intersect amid rule‑enforcement scrutiny [2].