Redemption Awaits: Team GB's Curling Duo Seeks Revenge in Cortina

Chasing Redemption

Four years is a long time to wait to right a wrong. In Beijing in 2022, Bruce Mouat and Jen Dodds, representing Team GB, faced an agonizing collapse in their mixed doubles curling semi-final against Norway. This wasn't just a loss; it was a hard-hitting reminder of the pressure that comes with Olympic aspirations. They forfeited a lead that seemed almost safe, watching as their chances for gold slipped away, ultimately finishing empty-handed.

The Return to Cortina d'Ampezzo

Fast forward to February 2026, where in the stunning snowy backdrop of Cortina d'Ampezzo, the opportunity for revenge is palpable. Mouat and Dodds, once childhood friends from Edinburgh, will again face their Norwegian rivals—Magnus Nedregotten and Kristin Skaslien—in the first of their nine round-robin matches at this year's Games.

“That first game that we played at the mixed doubles was the most nervous either of us have ever been in a game,” Mouat shared recently. “But this time, we have experience and we're going to rely heavily on that.”

Leaning on Experience

Both athletes have since embraced their Olympic journeys with grit and grace. Each carries a medal from their previous appearances: Dodds was part of the women's team that clinched gold in Beijing, while Mouat and his men's team secured a silver. These experiences have shaped them into seasoned competitors who know all too well the weight of representing their country on the world stage.

A Bond Forged Over Time

For Mouat and Dodds, their friendship stretches over 24 years, bringing an element of trust that permeates their game. “Our friendship really helps out too,” remarked Dodds. “We've got 100% trust and support from one another, creating a really safe environment for us.”

Homecoming to the Ice

Arriving at the quirky Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium—originally built for the 1956 Games—Mouat and Dodds exuded excitement about finally stepping onto the ice. Their selection for the event was confirmed last June, and the anticipation has only grown. As they prepare to take center stage, the 18:00 GMT start time looms closer.

Eyes on the Prize

The ultimate goal? Gold. As one of four recent mixed doubles world champions competing in Cortina, the stakes are high. But they are not alone; the hosts fend off challenges from a strong Italian team that recently beat Mouat and Dodds in the World Championship final, while Sweden showcases a brother-sister duo, and both Switzerland and Canada present formidable husband-wife teams.

Looking Forward

The curling world buzzes with anticipation as major forces collide, but for Team GB's Mouat and Dodds, the specter of 2022 lingers. It's time to transform past pain into present power. With their bond and experience as their shield, they look to etch their names into Olympic history.

Watch their journey live on the BBC iPlayer and the BBC Sport website as they aim for glory once again.