What is the curling power play? Explaining the rules of Winter Olympics sport - Mixed doubles returns to the programme in Milano-Cortina, with the power play a crucial element of the discipline

Here's everything you need to know about curling ahead of the 2026 Milan Cortina Olympics, including the rules, regulations and what to watch for.

Curling scoring, explained: A guide to understanding the rules, terms and Olympic points system originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

When the Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games come around every four years, there are many sports which compete to grab the attention of viewers around the world. However, there is one in particular that seems to capture the hearts and minds of many every time: curling.

Our Ask Me Anything team explain how the Winter Olympic sport of curling works.

Scoring an End: Matches are split into rounds termed ends, usually eight or 10 per game. After all 16 stones (eight per side) have been delivered, the team whose stone sits nearest the button earns one point for each stone positioned closer to the centre than their rivals' closest stone.