New Curling Sweeping Rules Banned Ahead of 2026 Winter Olympics, Sweden's Teams Adapt

Just one month before the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, the International Curling Federation has introduced new sweeping rules that ban a controversial sweeping technique affecting the ice surface and stone speed. The regulations prohibit individual brushing motions performed with pressing and brushing where the brush head is lifted before returning to the original position. Violations result in warnings for the first offense and stone removal upon a second offense.

Anna Hasselborg, skipper of the Swedish women's curling team, welcomed the change, expressing relief in an interview with The Grand Slam of Curling: "I am really happy." She also highlighted ongoing frustrations with rule violations at the hog line regarding stone release timings and hopes for stricter enforcement.

Sweden remains a strong medal contender, with the men's team, led by skip Edin, gold medalists from the 2022 Olympics, and Hasselborg's women's team having earned bronze. The mixed doubles event, starring siblings Isabella and Rasmus Wranå, will open the curling competitions on February 4.

The Winter Games run from February 6 to 22, featuring Sweden in multiple events including curling, hockey, skiing, and biathlon. The women's curling team holds gold medal odds of 8.00, illustrating their prominence in the sport despite the new sweeping restrictions.