Why does curling become so popular at the Olympics? And how does it even work? Time to actually learn about this popular Winter Olympics sport.

How do brooms affect stones in curling? Here's what to know as the popular 2026 Winter Olympics competition begins at Milano Cortina Games.

After Saturday, it is time to re-evaluate the mixed doubles speculations. Before the competition, my analysis was based mainly on pre-tournament history and long-term performance trends. Now, after six-seven games, we have a much clearer picture of the teams’ current levels – but also some confusing results.

What is the curling power play? Explaining the rules of Winter Olympics sport - Mixed doubles returns to the programme in Milano-Cortina, with the power play a crucial element of the discipline

When the Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games come around every four years, there are many sports which compete to grab the attention of viewers around the world. However, there is one in particular that seems to capture the hearts and minds of many every time: curling.

Did you know all Olympic curling stones come from a tiny Scottish island? Why the granite sourced at Ailsa Craig is crucial to this unique sport. (Photo: AP)

He found the Detroit Curling Club, which celebrated its 140th Anniversary in 2025. "The oldest recorded curling in the United States is in the Detroit area, dating back to 1832, and so curling has been around for quite a while here in the Detroit area," said Mike Grudzinski, vice president of Detroit Curling Club.

What is a curling power play? What is the hammer? How many ends? Who's on the U.S. team, and will their stone-cold strategy end the medal drought?

While the official start to the Olympics is Friday with the opening ceremonies, the U.S. mixed curling team was in action Thursday in Italy, winning the first two matches of round-robin play. The sport has plenty of interest here in Iowa.