The ongoing curling season is in full swing, with the world-championship season approaching in March. World Curling has announced plans to host the women’s world championship in the United Arab Emirates in mid-March. Additionally, there are discussions to potentially hold the men’s world championship in the region.
Specific details regarding the location for the championships have not been disclosed yet. Chris Hamilton, World Curling’s head of communications, confirmed that they are in advanced discussions with the United Arab Emirates for hosting the World Women’s Championship this season. These discussions also involve exploring growth opportunities in the region, such as hosting future men’s championships, regional championships, and organizing training programs through the World Curling Academy.
Although the intention is to hold the women’s world championship in the UAE, the official confirmation is pending. Typically, host locations for world championships are announced by this point. While Canada hosts world championships annually, alternating between women’s and men’s events, other championships take place in international locations.
The upcoming men’s world championship is scheduled for late March in St. John, N.B., with the announcement made well in advance to allow ample time for preparation. Holding a major curling event like this in the Middle East is unprecedented, given the region’s instability due to ongoing conflicts and frequent flight disruptions.
Despite the challenges, World Curling is aware of the considerations involved in hosting a championship in this region and is moving forward with plans to hold the event in the UAE. Contractual discussions are ongoing, with a decision expected in the coming weeks.
While there are still uncertainties surrounding the event, including the timing of announcements and backup plans for hosting, World Curling has refrained from providing detailed answers. The lack of clarity has created difficulties for athletes like Alina Patz, a Swiss curler and six-time world champion, who find it challenging to plan without definitive information.
Curling Canada is closely monitoring the situation but has not shared extensive thoughts on the hosting plans for the event in the UAE. The organization awaits final details from World Curling regarding the location and specifics of the 2027 world women’s curling championship, with no set timeline for the host location announcement. The women’s world curling championship is set to take place from March 13 to 21.
