The 2026 LGT World Men’s Curling Championship is set to deliver elite international curling action as the world’s top teams converge in Ogden from March 27 to April 4, 2026.
This 67th edition of the championship features a 13-team field and a high-stakes format that rewards consistency and punishes slow starts. For Canadian fans, the focus is clear: a new-look squad led by Matthew Dunstone takes center stage with ambitions to restore Canada’s dominance on the global stage.
Here’s everything you need to know about Team Canada’s schedule, key opponents, tournament format, and how to watch live.
Team Canada Overview: A New Era Begins
Canada enters the tournament with a fresh identity. Skipped by Matthew Dunstone, this marks the team’s first appearance at the World Men’s Curling Championship level.
Let’s be precise: this is not a legacy powerhouse lineup—it’s a rising unit. That creates both upside and volatility.
Strengths:
- Aggressive scoring strategy
- Strong shot-making under standard conditions
- Modern tactical approach
Risk factor: Limited experience under World Championship playoff pressure.
In today’s curling landscape, where margins are razor-thin, experience often decides medal games. That’s the gap Canada must close quickly.
How to Watch the 2026 World Men’s Curling Championship
Fans have multiple viewing options depending on location.
Canada Broadcast
- TSN
- RDS2
These networks will air Canada’s games and key playoff matchups.
International Streaming
A one-time payment streaming option, ideal for viewers outside Canada or without cable access.
Tournament Format: Why Positioning Matters More Than Ever
The 13-team round-robin format means every match counts. There’s no room for recovery if momentum slips early.
Format Breakdown:
- All teams play each other once
- Top 6 teams advance to playoffs
- Top 2 teams qualify directly for semifinals
- Teams ranked 3–6 enter qualification games
Here’s the strategic insight:
👉 Finishing top 2 is the single biggest competitive advantage.
It reduces game load, minimizes upset risk, and dramatically increases championship probability. Canada must target this—not just playoff qualification.
Full Team Canada Schedule (All Times EST)
Canada’s schedule is demanding, featuring multiple high-pressure matchups against top-tier opponents.
Friday, March 27
- Korea vs Canada – 3:30 PM
- Italy vs Canada – 9:00 PM
A double-header opening day that immediately tests endurance and focus.
Saturday, March 28
- Canada vs Scotland – 4:00 PM
Scotland, led by Ross Whyte, is one of the most disciplined teams in the field.
Sunday, March 29
- Canada vs United States – 4:00 PM
A rivalry clash against the United States men’s curling team, skipped by Olympic champion John Shuster.
Monday, March 30
- Poland vs Canada – 11:00 AM
- Canada vs Japan – 9:00 PM
A classic trap day—lower-ranked teams in the morning, followed by a technically sharp Japanese side in the evening.
Tuesday, March 31
- China vs Canada – 11:00 AM
- Sweden vs Canada – 9:00 PM
The biggest test comes against Sweden, skipped by Niklas Edin, widely considered the most dominant curler of the modern era.
Wednesday, April 1
- Canada vs Switzerland – 11:00 AM
- Czechia vs Canada – 9:00 PM
Switzerland, led by Marco Hoesli, is a serious contender capable of upsetting any top team.
Wednesday, April 1
- Canada vs Switzerland – 11:00 AM
- Czechia vs Canada – 9:00 PM
Switzerland, led by Marco Hoesli, is a serious contender capable of upsetting any top team.
Playoff Schedule
- April 3 – Qualification Games (11:00 AM)
- April 3 – Semifinals (5:00 PM)
- April 4 – Bronze Medal (11:00 AM)
- April 4 – Gold Medal (4:00 PM)
Teams to Watch: Canada’s Biggest Threats
Let’s cut through the field—only a few teams realistically stand between Canada and gold.
Elite Tier (Title Favorites)
- Sweden (Niklas Edin)
- Scotland (Ross Whyte)
- Canada (Matthew Dunstone)
Sweden remains the benchmark for execution and consistency.
Contender Tier (High Upside)
- Switzerland (Marco Hoesli)
- United States (John Shuster)
- Italy (Stefano Spiller, featuring Amos Mosaner)
These teams are dangerous but less consistent across long formats.
Strategic Outlook: What Canada Must Do to Win
Let’s move beyond surface-level analysis.
1. Fast Start is Non-Negotiable
Canada must target at least a 4–1 record early. Anything slower introduces unnecessary pressure.
2. Beat Direct Rivals
Victories against Sweden, Scotland, and Switzerland carry double value—wins plus tie-break advantages.
3. Avoid Qualification Round
This is critical. Teams forced into qualification games face:
- Increased fatigue
- Higher upset probability
- Shorter recovery windows
Canada has the talent to win—but not the margin for error.
If Matthew Dunstone and his team secure a top-two finish in the round robin, they become legitimate title contenders. If not, their path becomes significantly harder.
The 2026 LGT World Men’s Curling Championship will ultimately test whether this new-generation Canadian team is ready to carry the legacy—or still one cycle away.