Canadian Curling Team Alleges Swedish Side Orchestrated Improper Filming at Olympic Venue
Canada's men's curling team has launched a serious accusation against their Swedish counterparts, claiming that improper video was captured of an alleged hog line violation during Olympic competition. The controversy threatens to overshadow the prestigious international bonspiel as tensions escalate between the two curling powerhouses.
Kennedy's Heated Response to Allegations
Marc Kennedy, whose fiery reaction to cheating allegations from Sweden's Team Niklas Edin made international headlines, stated he believes someone from the Swedish camp deliberately filmed his delivery to influence the event's outcome. "They have come up with a plan here at the Olympics, as far as I know, to catch teams in the act at the hog line," Kennedy told assembled reporters. "This was planned, right from the word go yesterday."
The Canadian curler described noticing suspicious behavior from Swedish coaches and officials during the competition. "From the words that were being said by their coaches and the way they were running to the officials, it was kind of evident that something was going on, and they were trying to catch us in an act," Kennedy explained.
Premeditated Plan Allegations
Kennedy further asserted that this wasn't an isolated incident targeting only the Canadian team. "I know we're not the only team that they've done that to," he revealed. "So I think this was — I don't know what the word is for that — but like a premeditated plan to try to catch us."
The controversy centers on video footage showing Kennedy's finger appearing to graze a stone after release during Canada's 8-6 victory over the defending Olympic champions. The clip has gone viral across social media platforms, with Kennedy's outstretched finger quickly becoming an Olympic meme. Analysis of the video suggests it was shot from the spectator stands, with what appears to be a blue handrail visible in the foreground.
Official Responses and Denials
Team Sweden has categorically denied any inappropriate filming activities, claiming the controversial video originated from Swedish public broadcasting services rather than team officials. However, Canadian officials remain skeptical of these claims.
Curling Canada CEO Nolan Thiessen expressed surprise at the existence of the footage, noting it appeared to violate Olympic filming protocols. "I was surprised that there was a live video on the hog line outside of OBS rules," Thiessen told reporters. "That seems odd to me." Typically, only the Olympic Broadcasting Services (OBS) possesses authorization to film events within Olympic venues.
On-Ice Confrontation and Broader Implications
During the heated on-ice exchange, Swedish third Oskar Eriksson informed Kennedy he would present video evidence of alleged double touches after the game concluded. Following Sweden's subsequent victory over China, Eriksson clarified he was referring to potential violations from previous matches rather than the immediate contest.
Canada Coach Paul Webster suggested a coordinated effort behind the filming. "They actually had videos for the Italian team as well," Webster noted. "So they've got people up there videoing, and that whole thing was premeditated and planned. They were there, ready at the hog line, video recording."
The allegations have introduced unprecedented tension into Olympic curling competition, raising questions about sportsmanship, filming regulations, and the integrity of international competition. As both teams prepare for upcoming matches, the controversy continues to dominate discussions around the prestigious tournament.
