In a landmark achievement for winter sports in the country, Team India – the Indian Men’s Curling Team has etched its name in history by successfully clinching their final qualification games at the World Championships Pre-Qualifiers (Pan Continental) 2026. This remarkable performance has secured India’s promotion to the World Championships Qualifiers—a first-ever milestone for the nation in the sport of curling.
The decisive qualification match was held in Dumfries, Scotland, where India delivered a spirited and resilient performance. In a gripping encounter on Thursday, the Indian team staged a remarkable comeback from a 0–3 deficit to defeat Jamaica 9–7, demonstrating exceptional composure, strategy, and determination under pressure.
The Indian team was led by Skip P.N. Raju, alongside Third Girithar Anthay Suthakaran, Second Sudheer Reddy, and Lead Kishan Vasant, whose collective effort and coordination proved instrumental in achieving this historic breakthrough.
This accomplishment represents far more than a competitive victory. It reflects years of perseverance, focused development, and the steady emergence of India in winter sports. Competing against capable international teams, the Indian side displayed tactical precision, resilience, and exceptional teamwork—firmly establishing India’s presence on the global curling stage.
Message from the President, Curling Federation of India, Dr. Rashmi Saluja
“On behalf of the Curling Federation of India, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Skip P.N. Raju, Girithar Anthay Suthakaran, Sudheer Reddy, and Kishan Vasant on this historic accomplishment.
This milestone is a proud moment for Indian curling and a significant step forward for winter sports in our country. The team’s dedication, discipline, and resilience in a developing sporting ecosystem are truly commendable, and their success reflects years of consistent effort and belief.
Their achievement reinforces our vision to build a strong foundation for curling in India, expand opportunities for our athletes, and enhance international participation. As the team progresses to the World Championships Qualifiers, we are confident that this experience will further strengthen their capabilities and inspire many young athletes across the nation.
We remain committed to supporting our players in their journey toward global excellence and future Olympic aspirations. I once again congratulate the team and all those who have contributed to this proud moment for India.”
A Strategic Leap Towards Olympic Aspirations
This breakthrough carries significant long-term implications. Advancement to the World Championships Qualifiers provides Indian athletes with critical exposure to elite-level competition, improved global rankings, and a structured pathway toward Olympic qualification.
As India continues to expand its footprint in emerging sports, such milestones serve as important catalysts. With sustained performance and institutional support, this achievement strengthens India’s prospects of securing representation—and potentially podium success—at future Winter Olympics.
Building Momentum for the Future
The success of Skip P.N. Raju and his team underscores a broader narrative—that India’s sporting excellence is steadily expanding across diverse disciplines. With focused development, international exposure, and continued support, curling in India is poised for meaningful growth.
This achievement is not merely a milestone—it is the foundation of a promising future.
Team India has not only made history—they have paved the way for a new era in Indian winter sports. 💪
