The 2026 Grand Slam of Curling kicks off on Tuesday with a revamped commentary team and expanded streaming options, signalling a bold shift in how Canadian curling content is delivered to domestic and international audiences. The Curling Group has replaced long‑time host Rob Faulds and veteran analysts Kevin Martin and Mike Harris with a blend of seasoned talent and fresh voices, while also forging new partnerships with CBC, ESPN+ and DAZN. Returning analysts such as Jennifer Jones, Joanne Courtney and former Olympic champion Brad Gushue will share the desk, and Brent Laing makes his debut on live television after a season of streaming duties. The schedule features five major events across the autumn and winter, highlighted by the season‑opening Co‑op Invitational in Victoria and a high‑profile Thursday clash between American Danny Casper and Winnipeg’s Matt Dunstone that will air on ESPNU in the United States.
New Faces at the Commentary Desk
Darren Dupont joins John Cullen as the host/play‑by‑play duo for the season, bringing a relative newcomer’s enthusiasm to the broadcast booth. Dupont previously commentated at the Saskatchewan provincial championships and has extensive experience covering WHL hockey and Canadian university football. Cullen, who made his live TV debut on CBC during the Rock League last April, has also handled play‑by‑play for games streamed on The Curling Group’s Rock Channel over the past two seasons. The Curling Group CEO Nic Sulsky emphasised the organisation’s commitment to innovation, stating, “We’ve been very open with our desire to innovate, to change and to grow.” Meanwhile, Brad Gushue, who retired from competition earlier this year to become USA Curling’s high‑performance director, is set to make his analyst debut, confident that his deep strategic knowledge will resonate with viewers.
Broadcast Partners and Streaming Options
Sportsnet remains the primary domestic rights‑holder for the Grand Slam, delivering the bulk of the season’s coverage to Canadian audiences. CBC has signed on to broadcast select Saturday draws and key Sunday finals, expanding the availability of live events. Morning weekday draws and tiebreakers will be available exclusively on the Rock Channel for subscribers, offering a complementary platform for dedicated fans. Internationally, the ESPN+ streaming service will carry the season’s matches in the United States, while DAZN will provide coverage across other global markets. Notably, a Thursday match between American Danny Casper and Winnipeg’s Matt Dunstone will be featured on ESPNU, a network traditionally devoted to collegiate sport, marking a strategic push into new viewer demographics.
Season‑Opening Line‑ups and Schedule Highlights
The women’s draw opens with four Canadian teams: Kerri Einarson (Gimli, Manitoba), Kayla MacMillan (Victoria), Rachel Homan (Ottawa) and Taylor Reese‑Hansen (Victoria). The men’s field expands to 16 teams, including reigning Olympic champion Brad Jacobs (Sault Ste Marie, Ontario), Edmonton’s Brendan Bottcher, Toronto’s John Epping, Calgary’s Kevin Koe and defending champion Matt Dunstone. The season’s elite circuit continues with the GSOC Masters in Medicine Hat (3–8 November), the GSOC National in Sydney, Nova Scotia (17–22 November), the GSOC Open in Thunder Bay, Ontario (1–6 December) and culminates with the GSOC Players’ Cup in Kingston, Ontario (15–20 December). These events not only showcase the top talent but also serve as a barometer for the competitive landscape ahead of the 2026 Montana’s Brier.
Returning Legends and Rising Stars
Jennifer Jones returns to the analyst’s chair after retiring from competitive play in 2024, bringing her Olympic experience to the broadcast team. Joanne Courtney, who has been an analyst on TSN since 2023, also contributes her Olympic commentary expertise. Both women have previously called Olympic curling action, adding depth to the commentary panel. Meanwhile, Brent Laing transitions from streaming duties, where he has been on the mic for Grand Slam coverage since 2024, to a live television role, marking his debut on national broadcast. The infusion of seasoned analysts alongside emerging voices aims to enrich viewer understanding and keep the audience engaged throughout the season’s high‑stakes competition.
Why it Matters
The refreshed broadcast strategy signals a pivotal moment for Canadian curling, blending familiar expertise with fresh perspectives to broaden the sport’s appeal both at home and abroad. By expanding coverage across multiple platforms—from traditional television to streaming services—the Grand Slam is positioning itself to capture a wider demographic, especially younger viewers who favour digital content. This multi‑channel approach not only safeguards the sport’s visibility but also creates new revenue streams, ensuring the continued growth and sustainability of elite curling in Canada and beyond.
