On Saturday, the first matches of the European Championship will begin in Finland, where both the men’s and women’s teams will compete in the elite Group A. Their goal is to stay in this group and, at the same time, qualify for the World Championship. This is the last European Championship in this format; starting next year, the qualification system for the World Championship will change.

Team Klíma is traveling in its Olympic lineup. For the first time, the European Championship will not be the peak of their season, as they are preparing for their first Olympics. However, their goals for this event remain the same as every year. “Every year we have the same goal: to stay in Group A and qualify for the World Championship. We also want to improve on previous results,” says team member Lukáš Klípa. “We always look forward to the Europeans because it’s the first tournament of the season where we put on jerseys with the Czech flag and represent our country.”

The women’s team fought their way from Group B into the elite top ten last year and would like to stay there this year. “We’d also like to return to the World Championship, which this season will be held in Calgary, Canada. Championships in Canada are always a big experience because the arenas are full of fans,” says team member Karolína Špundová.

This year’s European Championship takes place in Kisakallio, Finland, a traditional destination for curling events. “The center is multifunctional and offers everything athletes need. There’s a gym and the arena within walking distance. I always look forward to coming here,” Špundová adds.

A total of three matches and the possible semifinals and finals will be broadcast on Czech Sport TV. From the group stage, viewers can watch the women’s games against Denmark, Switzerland, and Sweden. Other matches in both categories will be streamed via The Curling Channel.

Live updates will be available in Czech at curling.cz/ecc2025.