NHL and Rogers Announce Massive 12-Year Media Rights Deal, Doubling Previous Value
Canadian hockey fans are in for a treat as the NHL and Rogers Communications today announced a 12-year media rights agreement that’s poised to revolutionize how they experience their favorite sport. This landmark deal, pending final NHL owner approvals, guarantees the league a remarkable $11 billion in escalating annual payments – more than double the $5.2 billion secured in the 2013 agreement. The agreement underscores the continued importance of hockey to the Canadian market and provides a substantial boost to hockey revenue across the board.
Financial Highlights: A Revenue Revolution
The financial details of the agreement are staggering. Beyond the $11 billion in escalating payments, the new deal secures national rights across all platforms – television, digital streaming, and more – for every NHL regular season game, playoff event, and Stanley Cup Final. This comprehensive coverage is a significant victory for the league and a major win for Rogers.
- Total Investment: $11 billion over 12 years
- Previous Deal Value: $5.2 billion over 12 years
- Annual Payment Increase: More than double the previous contract’s annual value
- Start Date: 2026-27 NHL season
Quotes from Key Figures
“Hockey is Canada’s game and we’re proud to be the home of hockey,” said Tony Staffieri, president and CEO of Rogers, in a company release. “Sports are core to our company, and these rights are the most valuable sports rights in Canada.”
“We’re thrilled to continue our landmark partnership for an additional 12 years,” stated NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman. “The NHL and Rogers have a shared commitment to best serving Canadian fans and the unmatched passion that they have for our game, and we are particularly excited that through this agreement, we’ll bring more live games to more fans across Canada.”
Expanded Coverage for Canadian Fans
A key element of the agreement is the improved accessibility for Canadian fans. Rogers secured national rights across all platforms, including TV, digital, and streaming, for all national regular-season games, playoff games, and Stanley Cup final games in all languages. This will significantly reduce regional blackouts, ensuring fans across the country have access to the games they love.
“This will allow fans to access more live national games and fewer regional blackouts,” the Rogers release stated.
Continuing Traditions
Fans can expect to continue watching familiar broadcasts. Rogers will continue to air games on its Sportsnet networks and maintain “Hockey Night in Canada” broadcasts, cementing the tradition that’s become synonymous with Canadian hockey.
FAQ
- Q: When does the new deal begin?
- Q: How much will the NHL receive over the duration of the deal?
- Q: Will regional blackouts still exist?
A: The agreement commences with the 2026-27 NHL season.
A: The NHL will receive $11 billion in escalating annual payments.
A: No, Rogers secured national rights, minimizing regional blackouts.
Did you know? Rogers is also the parent company of CityNews and its affiliates, showcasing its commitment to comprehensive media coverage in Canada.
This agreement represents a pivotal moment for the NHL and a significant investment in the sport’s future within Canada. It’s a clear signal of the continued strength and popularity of hockey in the country.
Call to Action: Share your thoughts on this massive deal with us in the comments below! What are you most excited about seeing on Rogers’ channels?
Explore More: Read our analysis of the financial implications of this deal