The Canadian Football League (CFL) has announced significant new broadcast agreements that aim to enhance its media presence and revenue streams. These agreements will begin with the 2027 season and are seen as a historic expansion for the league.
CFL’s New Broadcast Partnerships
The CFL is extending its partnership with Bell Media, which has been the league’s exclusive broadcaster since 2008. Bell Media will continue to host approximately 75% of the regular season content, including:
- Thursday and Friday Night Football broadcasts on TSN.
- All but two of the nine playoff games.
- Exclusive coverage of the Grey Cup.
Additionally, the league welcomes DAZN as a new subscription-based streaming partner, which will offer one game per week to Canadian audiences. DAZN will also make CFL games available to viewers in over 200 countries outside of the U.S. and Canada.
Collaboration with YouTube
In a groundbreaking move, the CFL has entered a business agreement with YouTube. This partnership will allow YouTube to host all CFL preseason games along with other live content, expanding the league’s reach and engagement potential.
Financial Impact and Future Growth
While financial figures have not been revealed, the CFL states that these new deals are expected to produce the highest media valuation in the league’s history. They are anticipated to significantly increase revenue compared to the current agreement with Bell Media, which concludes after this season. The partnerships are locked in for a term of six years.
“These record-setting agreements mark a transformative moment for the CFL,” said CFL Commissioner Stewart Johnston. He emphasized the excitement surrounding the new collaborations, aiming to engage a broader fan base and enhance audience access.
Future Changes in the CFL
As part of the financial arrangements, the CFL’s current salary cap of $6.28 million is expected to increase substantially for the 2028 season, according to a formula agreed upon with the players’ union. The announcement of the new broadcast agreements marks the third significant change during Johnston’s tenure, following the introduction of rule changes and a revised playoff format set for 2027.
Overall, the CFL is poised to enter a new era of growth, leveraging these strategic partnerships to broaden its audience and enhance the fan experience.
