Mixed doubles curling begins the Milan-Cortina Games two days before the opening ceremony, with early wins for Britain, Sweden, Canada and Estonia
THE sports programme for the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics began quietly on Wednesday, two days before the official opening ceremony.
The mixed doubles curling competition kicked off the Games at the Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium in the chic Italian resort.
Eight teams unpacked their equipment in front of several hundred spectators, away from the glamour of alpine skiing and the media focus on injured US star Lindsey Vonn.
The early action was briefly interrupted by a power cut that blacked out the scoreboards during the initial matchups.
British pair Bruce Mouat and Jen Dodds, considered medal hopefuls after being runners-up at last year’s world championships, started their campaign with an 8-6 win over Norway.
Sweden, Canada and Estonia also recorded victories in their opening matches.
Reigning Olympic champions Italy will begin their gold medal defence against South Korea on Thursday.
The sprawling nature of these Games is reflected in the opening ceremony plans for Friday.
The main event will be held at the San Siro football stadium in Milan, with three other venues hosting the traditional athletes’ parade.
Venues are spread across 350 kilometres of northern Italy, from the iconic skiing location of Cortina d’Ampezzo to Milan.
Performers for the ceremony are set to include US singer Mariah Carey and Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli.
