The Curling Group plans to launch professional curling league next spring
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'Today's announcement is just the beginning with many more details to come, as we work to build a premium experience that will elevate the game for all.'
Specifics on player earnings, broadcast plans and event formats were not released. Details on the financial investment and cash structure were also not included.
The release did say that teams will be organized by region, with two each from Canada and Europe, and one each from the Asia-Pacific region and the United States.
There was no word on host cities but events are planned for Canada, the U.S., and Europe.
Each team will include five men and five women. Captains include Canada's Rachel Homan and Brad Jacobs, Scotland's Bruce Mouat, Switzerland's Alina Paetz, American Korey Dropkin and Japan's Chinami Yoshida.
Additional athletes and team names were expected to be announced later this year. The Curling Group said it will be the initial owner of each franchise.
Six-time Brier champion Brad Gushue said he was approached about participating but didn't feel ready to commit, adding he felt 'there's still some questions and some uncertainty there.'
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