A Historic Farewell in St. John’s

The Canadian curling world prepares for an emotional farewell as Brad Gushue, one of the sport’s most decorated athletes, competes in his final Brier, beginning Friday in his hometown of St. John’s, Newfoundland. The 45-year-aged Gushue boasts an impressive resume including six Canadian championships, a world championship and Olympic gold and bronze medals.

This year’s Canadian men’s curling championship will be particularly poignant for Gushue, as the winner will represent Canada at the men’s world championship later in March in Ogden, Utah.

Emotional Weight of the Finality

Gushue acknowledges the emotional weight of this final event. I want to perform well in front of everybody at home, and I also don’t want to cry every single game, Gushue said. That’s where my head is at right now is trying to make sure I don’t do that. He recognizes the significance of the moment, stating, Just the finality of it now, if we don’t win, this is the last event, there’s going to be some emotions.

Gushue anticipates a strong outpouring of support from fans, which he knows will be emotionally challenging.

Key Storylines and Competition

Gushue opens the tournament Friday against Quebec’s Jean-Michel Menard. The defending champions, skipped by Brad Jacobs, will also be in action, having recently secured Olympic gold.

Other notable storylines include Ontario’s Jayden King, who will become the first Black man to skip a team at the Brier. King’s team also features Dylan Niepage, who is deaf and uses cochlear implants. Prince Edward Island will compete with a three-man team, a strategy they successfully employed during their provincial championship.

A Legacy of Success

Gushue’s first Brier victory in St. John’s in 2017 proved to be a pivotal moment, launching his team to further success. He won a world championship that same year.

Gushue’s long-time teammates, Mark Nichols, Brett Gallant, and Geoff Walker, have been integral to his success, contributing to his six national titles, world championship, and Olympic bronze medal.

Looking Ahead

Gushue expressed a desire to finish strong. The storybook ending is us winning and us walking off into the sunset as a team, but the reality is if we win, we have to go play at the worlds in three weeks, he said. When people say, do you want to finish up in St. John’s, I have to say no because I don’t want to walk out losing my last game. I want to win that last one and finish on a high.”

FAQ

• When is Brad Gushue’s final Brier? The Brier begins Friday, February 27, 2026, in St. John’s, Newfoundland.
• What has Brad Gushue achieved in his career? He is a six-time Canadian champion, a world champion, and an Olympic gold and bronze medalist.
• Who is Jayden King? He is the first Black man to skip a team at the Brier.