Québec is actively pursuing the opportunity to host a team in the Professional Women’s Hockey League (LPHF) by 2027. The league plans to expand by adding between two and four new teams, following the recent inclusion of Seattle and Vancouver.
Quebec’s Bid for LPHF Expansion
According to Martin Tremblay, the chief operating officer of the Quebecor Sports and Entertainment Group, significant efforts are underway to convince the league to choose Quebec City as one of its expansion sites. Tremblay emphasized the region’s potential, stating, “We are demonstrating that Quebec is a significant hockey market. We believe a team can succeed here.”
Recent Developments in Women’s Hockey
- The LPHF recently added two teams in Seattle and Vancouver, marking its growth.
- The league’s executive vice president confirmed ambitions to expand further in the upcoming season.
- On January 19, 2025, an exhibition match featured the Montreal Victory against the Ottawa Charge in Quebec.
- Over 18,000 fans attended, showcasing the local enthusiasm for women’s hockey.
As of now, 13,000 tickets have been sold for the upcoming match between the Montreal Victory and the Vancouver Goldeneyes at the Centre Vidéotron. Tremblay noted that the upcoming match would further demonstrate community support for the LPHF.
Competitive Landscape and Expansion Process
Several other cities are also in contention to host LPHF teams, including Calgary, Chicago, Denver, Edmonton, Detroit, Hamilton, and Halifax. Quebecor’s initial interest does not require a significant financial commitment for team acquisition immediately, as the league currently owns the teams.
Mark Walter, a high-profile American businessman and owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers and Lakers, oversees the league. His leadership is expected to transition towards a model where future ownership could be transferred to the cities hosting the teams after initial expansion phases.
Upcoming Events in Quebec City
| Date | Event | Location |
|---|---|---|
| January 10 | Public training session & autograph signing | Centre Vidéotron |
| January 11 | Match: Montreal Victory vs. Vancouver Goldeneyes | Centre Vidéotron |
As the league moves forward, Quebec’s aspirations to host an LPHF team remain strong, backed by community support and an enthusiastic approach to promoting women’s hockey in the region.
