Hockey Night in Canada is departing CBC after nearly 75 years. Sportsnet will now carry all NHL Saturday broadcasts going forward under a new 12-year, $7.7 billion rights deal.
What We Know: CBC first aired Hockey Night in Canada in 1952. The public broadcaster held exclusive Saturday night rights through the 2013-14 season. After that, a sub-licensing agreement with Rogers Communications kept NHL games on CBC. That arrangement expired at the end of the recent Stanley Cup playoffs and was not renewed. In its place, CBC will launch a new Saturday night prime time show on CBC and streaming on CBC Gem. Moreover, this programming features Canadian athletes competing at home and at the biggest events around the world.
What They Said: Doug Smith, executive vice-president, CBC: “As the proud home of Team Canada, we’re already investing in the L.A. Games in 2028 and setting a course for the French Alps in 2030. 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.”
Joint Statement From CBC, Sportsnet: “After a successful 12-year partnership, Sportsnet and CBC today announced the public broadcaster will no longer carry NHL broadcasts after the current season as it moves forward with a new sports programming strategy following the unprecedented success of the Milano/Cortina Olympic Games. Watching hockey on Saturday night is a time-honoured tradition for Canadians. Sportsnet is privileged to continue delivering that tradition. This has been a terrific partnership, and both parties look forward to continued opportunities to collaborate in the future.”
What Remains Unclear: Any financial terms of the separation is unknown. It is also unclear whether CBC will pursue any other live sports rights outside of hockey to fill the void.
What It Means: This marks a significant shift in Canadian sports media. For decades, CBC’s Saturday night hockey was a cultural institution. However, Sportsnet now holds exclusive control under Rogers’ landmark $7.7 billion deal. Moreover, Canadian fans will need a cable or streaming subscription to watch, as free over-air access ends.
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John Mamola is Barrett Media’s sports editor and daily sports columnist. He brings over two decades of experience (Chicago, Tampa/St Petersburg) in the broadcast industry with expertise in brand management, sales, promotions, producing, imaging, hosting, talent coaching, talent development, web development, social media strategy and design, video production, creative writing, partnership building, communication/networking with a long track record of growth and success. He is a five-time recognized top 20 program director in a major market via Barrett Medi’s Top 20 series and has been honored internally multiple times as station/brand of the year (Tampa, FL) and employee of the month (Tampa, FL) by iHeartMedia. Connect with John by email at John@BarrettMedia.com.
