Full Breakdown
The Demanding Schedule of Curling at the Milan Cortina Olympics
2/20/2026, 3:54:56 AM
Overview of the Curling Competition
The 2026 Milan Cortina Olympic Games feature an intense curling schedule, with a total of 147 matches packed into just 18 days. This demanding format has led athletes like Canadian curler Brad Jacobs to express their exhaustion, as they face a rigorous competition that began two days before the Opening Ceremony on February 4. Curling is unique among Olympic sports, being played every day of the Games, which contributes to its reputation as a grueling event.
The Physical and Mental Toll on Athletes
Curling matches typically last over two hours, and athletes often play multiple matches in quick succession. Jacobs noted the mental strain of the competition, stating, “It’s quite draining… The Olympics is the hardest curling event on the planet.” The sport requires not only physical endurance but also mental acuity, as curlers must adapt to fluctuating ice conditions and strategize effectively. The preparation between matches includes team discussions, physiotherapy, and mental conditioning, further adding to the athletes' workload.
Post-Olympic Challenges
After the Olympics, many curlers face additional competitions. For instance, Swiss curler Yannick Schwaller's team is set to compete in the Swiss championships immediately following the Games, where they will play 12 more matches. Schwaller acknowledged the challenge, saying, “Of course it’s a grind. If we could choose, there would be a different schedule next week.” This sentiment is echoed by Canadian curler Tyler Tardi, who expressed a desire for a less demanding schedule, comparing it to the shorter playoff formats in hockey.
Recovery and Future Plans
The physical and mental demands of curling necessitate recovery time for athletes. Italian curler Amos Mosaner, who recently won a bronze medal in mixed doubles, emphasized the importance of recovery, stating, “It’s not only physically but also mentally you have to recover.” Some curlers are looking forward to personal time off, with plans for honeymoons and wellness retreats following the intense competition.
Official Statements & Responses
Curling athletes have voiced their concerns regarding the rigorous schedule. Tardi mentioned, “I kind of envy that” referring to the more manageable game schedules in hockey. This reflects a broader conversation among curlers about the need for a reevaluation of the competition format to better accommodate athlete well-being.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I think the Olympics is the hardest curling event on the planet …” — Brad Jacobs, Canadian Curler
- “Of course it’s a grind. If we could choose, there would be a different schedule next week.” — Yannick Schwaller, Swiss Curler
- “It’s not only physically but also mentally you have to recover,” — Amos Mosaner, Italian Curler
The demanding nature of the curling schedule at the Milan Cortina Olympics highlights the need for ongoing discussions about athlete welfare and competition formats in high-stakes sports.
