The beloved Saturday night tradition of Hockey Night in Canada will not be broadcast on CBC for the 2026‑27 season, marking the first time in nearly seven decades that Canadian viewers will have to seek NHL coverage elsewhere.
A historic partnership comes to an end
The change follows the expiration of a sub‑licensing agreement between Rogers Communications and the CBC, a deal that had allowed the public broadcaster to air national games and all four playoff rounds since the 1950s.
Under the terms of Rogers' new 12‑year, $11‑billion agreement with the National Hockey League, the network will continue to use the Hockey Night in Canada brand for its own Saturday night lineup on Sportsnet.
Joint statement confirms the split
Rogers Sportsnet and the CBC issued a joint statement confirming that the partnership was not renewed, ending a relationship that began when the CBC first televised the program in 1952.
While the CBC will no longer produce or air the iconic Saturday night show, it will still broadcast some NHL content through other agreements, but the flagship slot will be replaced by Sportsnet's coverage.
Broader implications for Canadian sports broadcasting
The move reflects a wider shift toward private‑sector ownership of major sports rights in Canada, a trend that has seen Rogers secure exclusive national broadcast privileges across its Sportsnet platforms.
Fans will still be able to watch the games on Sportsnet and its streaming service, but many will miss the CBC's long‑standing presence, distinctive theme music and the familiar voice that has defined the broadcast for generations.