Olympic Curling Controversy Erupts
The World Curling Federation scrambled to address disputes over umpiring and sportsmanship during the women's round robin match between Canada and China. Canada's Rachel Homan, Sarah Wilkes, and Emma Miskew reacted emotionally after the match as officials intervened then withdrew umpires.
- The controversy began after the Canadian men's team was accused of "double-touching" stones during a match against Sweden, leading the World Curling Federation to place umpires to monitor all deliveries. - During her next game against Switzerland, Canadian skip Rachel Homan had her first rock of the game removed by an umpire for an alleged double-touch, a decision she called "unbelievable" and Canadian men's skip Brad Jacobs called "despicable." - Following the backlash, the World Curling Federation reversed its decision and reverted to a system where umpires would only monitor a player's delivery upon the opposing team's request. - In the subsequent match against China, the Chinese team formally requested that an umpire watch Homan's deliveries for several ends, though no violations were called. - Homan stated she expected the request from the Chinese team and that her team is focused on their own game, not on watching opponents for infractions. - Curling does not use video replay for officiating, meaning the on-ice umpire's decision is final and cannot be reviewed. - After the initial incident against Switzerland, which resulted in an 8-7 loss, Homan's team went on to defeat China 10-5. - The series of events has been noted for bringing an unusual level of international attention and discussion about the rules and sportsmanship within the sport of curling.
