Winter Olympics shock: Team GB dragged into deepening curling scandal

Scottish curler Bobby Lammie has been penalised for a controversial ‘double-touch’ infraction during Great Britain’s victory over Germany, as the row engulfing the Winter Olympics widens.

The incident occurred in the ninth end of the round-robin clash at the curling centre in Cortina.

Officials ruled that the Dumfries-born athlete had made illegal contact with the granite after its release, resulting in the stone being immediately removed from play.

Despite the contentious sanction, Bruce Mouat’s rink maintained their composure to secure a commanding 9-4 triumph.

North American giants under fire

This latest ruling suggests a zero-tolerance approach by officials following intense scrutiny regarding the Canadian delegation.

The historic heavyweights of the roaring game have found their reputation bruised by similar allegations over the past 48 hours.

Swedish athlete Oskar Eriksson sparked the debate on Friday, accusing Marc Kennedy of a double-touch violation.

While Kennedy responded with a furious denial, video footage circulated by Swedish broadcaster SVT appeared to contradict his stance.

The drama intensified late on Saturday when celebrated skip Rachel Homan faced the same accusation against Switzerland.

World Curling clarifies stance

An umpire halted play to remove Homan’s stone, leaving the Canadian visibly shocked as her team went on to suffer a narrow 8-7 defeat.

World Curling has since issued a firm statement reiterating that touching the stone during forward motion is strictly prohibited.

“During forward motion, touching the granite of the stone is not allowed. This will result in the stone being removed from play.”

The governing body confirmed that two roving officials are now monitoring matches to enforce the rule.

However, they noted it remains impossible to have umpires stationed at every hog line during every game.

With Canada’s mixed doubles team having already failed to medal, the pressure is mounting on one of the world’s most fervent curling nations.