The 2026 Winter Olympics just got a whole lot more intense for Team GB, and it’s all thanks to a jaw-dropping start that left them reeling. Imagine this: a packed Cortina Curling Stadium, horns blaring, and a first end so disastrous it set the tone for a heart-wrenching defeat against the host nation, Italy. But here’s where it gets controversial—was it a momentary lapse in judgment or a tactical misstep that cost them the game? Let’s dive in.
Coming off two impressive wins, including a victory over Sweden—the team that snatched gold from them four years ago—Team GB’s men were riding high. Yet, their confidence took a hit in the opening moments when Italy stole four points, leaving the British squad scrambling in front of a deafening home crowd. And this is the part most people miss: despite being the world’s top-ranked rink, even the best can falter under pressure. Still, they fought back, clawing their way to level the score by the ninth end. But Italy held their ground, sealing a 9-7 victory and adding GB to their list of scalps, alongside Sweden.
‘We gave it everything,’ lead Hammy McMillan told BBC Sport. ‘Nine strong ends, but it just wasn’t enough.’ Yet, all hope isn’t lost. With seven wins from nine round-robin matches guaranteeing a semi-final spot, Bruce Mouat’s team remains in contention. Next up? GB’s women face South Korea, while the men return on Saturday against the Czech Republic.
Now, let’s talk about that first end. The stunned expressions on the GB curlers’ faces said it all. Trailing by one, Mouat took a risky shot aiming for two points, but fate had other plans. An unlucky ricochet left Italy’s yellow stones in prime position, handing them a four-point steal. Here’s the bold question: would a more conservative approach have saved the game? Or was this the kind of risk the world’s best must take to stay on top?
What followed was a masterclass in resilience. GB traded singles, then a brilliant final throw by Mouat—assisted by a compass measurement—brought them back to 5-3. A stolen point in the fourth end narrowed the gap further. Italy responded, but GB fought back again, leveling the score with one end to go. In the end, Italy’s nerves held, securing their victory and sending the crowd into a frenzy.
‘It’s surreal,’ McMillan added. ‘The atmosphere is more football than curling, but it’s incredible. We’ll have to adapt and embrace it.’
So, here’s the real question for you: Did Team GB lose this match, or did Italy simply outplay them? And what would you have done in Mouat’s shoes—played it safe or gone for the bold move? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments!
