Olympic curling champion Brad Jacobs splits with Carruthers' Manitoba rink

Veteran skip Brad Jacobs is a free agent after announcing Wednesday that he is parting ways with Reid Carruthers and his Manitoba-based curling team.

Jacobs joined the team based near Winnipeg, which also includes second Derek Samagalski and lead Connor Njegovan, midway through the 2022-23 season replacement for former third Jason Gunnlaugson.

He became a permanent member of the team this season and took over as skip when he swapped roles with Carruthers in December.

"It is with mixed emotions that I have decided to part ways with Reid, Derek, Connor and [coach Rob Meakin]," Jacobs said in a statement on social media. "It is never easy nor enjoyable to make these tough decisions.

"They welcomed me with open arms, treated me like family, were incredible teammates and friends."