Curling’s Black Label Cup 2026: SC Karuizawa Club claim dramatic comeback victory for first title – inside the thrilling showdown that stunned the Canadian pair
It was like watching a drama unfold on ice. The Curling Black Label Cup 2026 came to a close on 18th March in Karuizawa, Nagano, and the final day delivered a finale to remember. In the championship match, SC Karuizawa Club staged a last-gasp comeback against Chubu Property Division to clinch a magnificent first tournament victory. It was the kind of moment that brought the crowd to its feet—and had curling fans across the nation cheering at their screens.
Chess on ice: a final-end turnaround
Watching the final from ringside, it was tense from start to finish. SC Karuizawa Club found themselves trailing for much of the middle phase, but there was no panic in their play. Skip Yusuke Morozumi kept the team composed, and in the final end, they pulled off the comeback. Under the weight of the last stone, they delivered a superb double takeout to snatch the win. Speaking after the match, an emotional Morozumi said, “The support from the local crowd really carried us through.”
A world-class stage: Canada enters the fray
One of the major draws of this year’s tournament was the presence of a formidable Canadian pair invited by Curling Canada. The young team, finalists at last year’s World Championships, impressed from the qualifiers onward with pinpoint shot accuracy that captivated the Japanese audience. Though they fell to Karuizawa in the semi-finals, their performance no doubt left a strong impression on the local players. After the match, both teams shared a warm exchange of congratulations—a moment of friendship that transcended the ice.
Curling meets craft beer: a new tradition
The Black Label Cup is more than just a competition. The tournament’s namesake, Black Label, is a special brew created in collaboration with a local craft brewery in Karuizawa. A dedicated “Curling Brewery” corner was set up at the venue, where fans gathered after the matches to chat over a craft beer. It seems the post-game pint has become a firm part of the event’s charm—a perfect way to unwind after the on-ice intensity.
- SC Karuizawa Club claim first title – A comeback victory on home ice
- Canadian duo take part – Crowds thrilled by world-class shots
- Special brew from Karuizawa Brewery – Tournament-exclusive beer a hit
- Record attendance – Stands packed day after day
- Next generation on the rise – Young talent shines throughout
Looking ahead: the future of Japanese curling
With momentum now behind them, SC Karuizawa Club head into next month’s national championships full of confidence. Watching them play, it’s clear their game isn’t just about technical skill—there’s a genuine spirit of enjoyment running through it all. The on-ice battles are fierce, but afterward, the smiles and handshakes between players tell another story. That’s likely why Japanese curling continues to win fans abroad. Word has it even more top-tier international teams are expected to join next year. If that’s the case, we can look forward to more unforgettable drama on the ice in Karuizawa.