How Did Mouat and Dodds Lead Team GB to Victory?

Bruce Mouat and Jen Dodds made a strong start for Team GB at the Winter Olympics by defeating Norway 8-6 in their opening mixed doubles curling match, showcasing their resilience and skill despite some initial challenges, including a power cut. This victory is particularly significant as the duo seeks redemption after their previous experience in the 2022 semi-final, solidifying their position as serious medal contenders.

Last updated: 02 February 2026 (BST)

What’s happening now

Team GB's mixed doubles curling team, featuring Bruce Mouat and Jen Dodds, is off to a triumphant start at the Winter Olympics in Cortina d'Ampezzo. The pair's 8-6 victory over Norway sets a positive tone for their campaign as they aim for a medal in this prestigious event. As the competition progresses, they will face Estonia and the Czech Republic in their next matches, both of which are crucial for their chances of advancing in the tournament.

Key takeaways

Mouat and Dodds defeated Norway 8-6 to kick off their Winter Olympics campaign.
The match was marked by a power cut that briefly disrupted play.
This victory is a redemption from their previous Olympic experience.
The duo's next matches will be against Estonia and the Czech Republic.
Their performance is seen as a confidence booster as they prepare for tougher competition ahead.

Timeline: how we got here

The journey to the Winter Olympics has been marked by significant milestones for Mouat and Dodds:

2022: The pair reached the semi-finals at the Winter Olympics, finishing fourth after losing to Norway and Sweden.
2023: They won silver at the World Championships, showcasing their potential as a formidable mixed doubles team.
February 2026: They began their campaign in Cortina d'Ampezzo with a victory over Norway on 2 February.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The recent match against Norway highlighted the duo's ability to perform under pressure, particularly following an unexpected power outage. Their victory not only marks a successful start but also provides a morale boost ahead of subsequent matches.

What was already established

Prior to this competition, Mouat and Dodds were already considered serious medal contenders, having previously achieved notable success in world championships and having solidified their partnership over time. Their experience in high-stakes matches is expected to enhance their performance in the ongoing Olympics.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The success of Team GB at the Winter Olympics can have a positive impact on national morale and interest in winter sports. Increased visibility and support for curling could lead to more participation in local clubs and increased funding for the sport.

Businesses and jobs

Success in the Olympics often translates to greater sponsorship opportunities for athletes and increased investment in sports development programs. This can lead to job creation within the sports sector and related industries.

Policy and regulation

The performance of Team GB may influence government support for winter sports, potentially leading to more targeted funding and resources for training and facilities in the UK.

Numbers that matter

8-6: Final score of the match against Norway, showcasing the competitive nature of the game.
3,500: Capacity of the Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium, reflecting the event's popularity.
2: Upcoming matches against Estonia and the Czech Republic, both crucial for Team GB's progress.
4: Number of mixed doubles world champions competing at the event, highlighting the high level of competition.
6: Total ends played in the match against Norway before Team GB secured victory.

Definitions and jargon buster

Mixed Doubles: A format in curling where teams consist of one male and one female player.
Curling: A sport in which players slide stones on a sheet of ice towards a target area.
Powerplay: A strategy in curling that allows a team to place stones in a more advantageous position during a specific end.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the immediate future, Team GB will focus on maintaining momentum and refining their strategies in upcoming matches against Estonia and the Czech Republic. They will need to analyse their performance and adapt to their opponents' styles of play.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Looking ahead, the focus will shift to potential medal matches, with emphasis on consistent performance and mental resilience. The team will likely engage in further training and preparation following the Olympics to continue their development.

Signals to watch

Performance in upcoming matches against Estonia and the Czech Republic.
Any changes in team dynamics or strategies as they progress through the tournament.
Responses from sponsors and media coverage influencing future opportunities for the athletes.

Practical guidance

Do

Stay informed about Team GB's schedule and results to support the athletes.
Engage with local curling clubs to understand more about the sport.
Encourage young athletes to take up curling and other winter sports.

Don’t

Underestimate the impact of public support on athletes' performances.
Neglect the importance of strategy and teamwork in curling.
Ignore the weather conditions that may affect performance during outdoor events.

Checklist

Follow Team GB's matches and updates.
Understand the rules of curling to better appreciate the game.
Support local curling events and initiatives.
Stay updated on the latest sports news regarding the Winter Olympics.
Engage with community discussions about winter sports and Team GB's prospects.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While Mouat and Dodds have shown promise, the unpredictability of sports means that their future matches could present unforeseen challenges. Factors such as the performance of opponents, changes in team dynamics, and external conditions like weather or venue issues could influence outcomes. It's essential to remain cautious regarding predictions about medal outcomes as the competition progresses.

Bottom line

Team GB's mixed doubles curling team, led by Bruce Mouat and Jen Dodds, has made a strong statement with their opening match victory at the Winter Olympics. As they prepare for upcoming challenges, their performance will be critical not only for their medal hopes but also for the future of curling in the UK.

FAQs

What is mixed doubles curling?

Mixed doubles curling is a variant of curling where each team consists of one male and one female player, competing to slide stones towards a target area on the ice.

How did Team GB perform against Norway?

Team GB, represented by Bruce Mouat and Jen Dodds, won their match against Norway with a score of 8-6, marking a successful start to their Winter Olympics campaign.

When are Team GB's next matches?

Team GB will face Estonia and the Czech Republic in their next matches, scheduled for 09:05 GMT and 18:05 GMT respectively on 2 February 2026.