CBC/Radio-Canada will no longer deliver NHL coverage after the end of the current season, ending a 12-year sublicensing deal with Rogers Media’s Sportsnet.
The Canadian pubcaster is embarking on a new direction for its sports programming on the heels of the success of its Milano/Cortina Olympic Games. It says it is leaning in on coverage of “high-performance athletes and events,” such as the Commonwealth Games, and women’s professional leagues. Replacing Saturday night NHL coverage, it will offer a new primetime show highlighting Canada’s athletes as they compete at home and around the world.
“As the proud home of Team Canada, we’re already investing in the LA Games in 2028 and setting a course for the French Alps in 2030,” said Doug Smith, EVP at CBC. “At the same time, our commitment doesn’t pause following the closing ceremony; we will be there between the Games—in every community, every arena, every early morning practice and every late night training session.”
“As Canada’s Olympic network every day through 2032, our increased commitment will include more in-depth storytelling, more live sport, and more coverage of Canadian athletes at home and abroad,” added Chris Wilson, executive director of CBC Sports and GM of Olympics for CBC/Radio-Canada. “We’re focused on the people at the heart of the competition, covering their achievements and sacrifices as they represent our country.”
“We want to shine a spotlight on our athletes well beyond the Olympic and Paralympic Games themselves,” said Sophie Morasse, executive director of entertainment, sports and TOU.TV. “By sharing not only their victories but also their personal journeys, we create a genuine connection between the public and this new generation of champions.”
Live event coverage will be supplemented with documentary-style programming with stories of Canadian sport and leading athletes.
