CBC Loses NHL Broadcasting Rights

CBC will stop broadcasting NHL hockey games after the current season because it could not reach a new sublicensing agreement with rights-holder Rogers Sportsnet, according to a joint statement released Tuesday. The public broadcaster previously aired national Saturday games and all four annual playoff rounds under a deal that began in 2013.

The change follows Rogers Sportsnet’s renewal of the league’s Canadian rights with a 12-year, $11.2-billion agreement starting in October. Rogers originally acquired those rights in 2013 for $5.2 billion.

Why did CBC and Rogers Sportsnet end their partnership?

The two organizations failed to agree on a new sublicensing deal. A joint statement noted that CBC is moving toward a “new sports programming strategy” following the Milano/Cortina Olympic Games.

Under the previous arrangement, Sportsnet produced the games, managed advertising, and kept editorial control. CBC’s involvement served to broaden the reach across Canada and allowed the public broadcaster to promote its own shows.

Did You Know? CBC has a long history with the sport, having first begun televising NHL games in 1952.

What is the cultural significance of the move?

CBC Sports executive director Chris Wilson called the transition an “end of an era” but described it as an opportunity. Hockey analyst Jeff Marek stated the loss affects Canadian culture more broadly than just sports fans.

Michael McKinley, author of Hockey Night in Canada: 60 Seasons, described hockey as an “essential Canadian story.” He noted the CBC brand previously defined how sports stories were told to the nation.

Broadcaster Dave Hodge suggested the move was “inevitable.” Hodge noted that professional sports have shifted toward dedicated sports channels like TSN and Sportsnet, while CBC’s interest has moved toward amateur sports.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that this shift reflects a broader trend where high-value sports rights move from general public broadcasters to specialized networks capable of sustaining multi-billion dollar investments. The transition marks a move from “appointment television” for the general public to a targeted subscription-based model.

What will replace Hockey Night in Canada on CBC?

CBC will launch a new Saturday night prime time show on its main channel and CBC Gem streaming service. This program will feature Canadian athletes competing both at home and globally.

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From Instagram — related to Rogers Sportsnet, Hockey Night

CBC executive vice-president Doug Smith said the network is investing in the 2028 L.A. Games and the 2030 French Alps. He stated the network will remain present in communities and arenas between major Games.

Additionally, Radio-Canada will launch a weekly show called Rendez-vous Podium. This program will air on Sunday afternoons on ICI TÉLÉ and ICI TOU.TV.

What happens next for NHL viewers?

NHL chief communications officer Jon Weinstein stated that Sportsnet will continue the tradition of Saturday night hockey. Viewers who previously watched on CBC may need to access games via Sportsnet platforms.

NHL & Rogers Announce New Rights Agreement | Full Press Conference

While CBC still holds the Hockey Night in Canada trademark, it is the first time the program will not be available via the public broadcaster. The network could potentially incorporate the brand into future coverage.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will NHL games stop airing on CBC?
Broadcasts will end after the current season.

How much did Rogers Sportsnet pay for the new NHL rights?
Rogers renewed the rights with a 12-year, $11.2-billion deal beginning in October.

What is the new sports focus for CBC?
CBC is shifting toward amateur sports and Canadian athletes, with specific investments in the 2028 L.A. Games and the 2030 French Alps.

How do you think the move from public broadcasting to specialized sports networks changes the way fans experience the game?