In a bold move that has sent shockwaves through the curling community, retired curling legend Kevin Martin has publicly criticized officials for failing to televise more curling events. The former Olympic gold medalist and back-to-back Brier champion took to social media and press conferences to express his frustrations, issuing a stern ultimatum that has left both fans and players on edge.
Martin’s comments come at a time when curling is enjoying a resurgence in popularity, particularly following international successes and the sport’s growing appeal among younger audiences. Despite this, Martin argues that major curling events are being largely ignored by broadcasters, depriving fans of the chance to watch their favorite sport on a wider scale.
Kevin Martin’s Demand for Curling Coverage
In his public statement, Martin didn’t mince words. He called out broadcasting networks and curling governing bodies for their reluctance to prioritize curling, especially during major championships and international competitions. Martin, known for his passion for the sport even after retirement, stated, *“Curling is a sport that deserves to be on every television screen, especially during the winter season. The fact that it’s being pushed aside for other programming is disrespectful to the athletes and the fans who have invested so much in this sport.”
His frustrations seem to stem from recent decisions by sports networks to opt for coverage of more mainstream sports like hockey and basketball over curling events, even during prime curling seasons like the Brier and the World Curling Championships.
Ultimatum to the Officials: “Step Up or Step Down”
What has garnered the most attention from Martin’s speech, however, is his direct ultimatum to the officials in charge of promoting curling. Martin demanded immediate action to increase the sport’s television presence, or else he hinted at potential disruptions from curling players and fans. He stated, *“If the networks and officials don’t step up and give curling the coverage it deserves, they might face an organized boycott or protest from those who truly love the sport. Enough is enough.”
The curling icon’s words have echoed across the curling world, as many fans have voiced their support for Martin’s stance. His ultimatum has even reached the ears of several curling organizations, who have acknowledged his concerns but have yet to offer any substantial solutions.
Fans React: A Surge of Support
Following Martin’s comments, social media exploded with curling fans praising his bold move. Many fans have long voiced frustrations about the lack of televised curling games, particularly outside of Canada, where curling remains a more niche sport. The hashtag TeleviseCurlingNow has been trending, with fans calling for networks to heed Martin’s ultimatum.
One fan tweeted, Kevin Martin is absolutely right! Curling deserves to be televised just like any other sport. We support this ultimatum 100%!
Another supporter added, “We’ve been asking for more curling coverage for years, and finally, Kevin Martin is putting the pressure on officials. It’s about time!”*
What’s Next?
While it remains to be seen how officials will respond to Kevin Martin’s ultimatum, his rebuke has certainly sparked a much-needed conversation about curling’s place in the broader sports landscape. For a sport that continues to grow in both participation and popularity, Martin’s push for greater exposure might be the catalyst needed to take curling to the next level.
As fans rally behind the champion’s call to action, officials now face a critical choice—meet the demands of the curling community or face the potential backlash from both players and viewers alike. Either way, it’s clear that Kevin Martin has reignited the fight for curling’s rightful place on the airwaves, and fans couldn’t be happier.
For now, all eyes are on the sport’s governing bodies, as they decide whether to listen to one of curling’s greatest champions—or risk losing the support of the very people who keep the sport alive.
