CBC announced that it will no longer broadcast NHL games, bringing to a close a 12‑year sublicensing agreement with Rogers Sportsnet that had delivered the league’s Canadian feed since 2014. The decision was framed as part of a broader sports‑programming strategy that will see the public broadcaster prioritize Canadian athletes and its Olympic coverage through 2032.
While the NHL’s main Canadian rights move to Rogers, CBC will continue to wield the storied "Hockey Night in Canada" brand, a cultural touchstone that first aired as a radio program in 1931 and transitioned to television in 1952. The network highlighted its legacy of legendary play‑by‑play voices such as Foster Hewitt, Danny Gallivan, Ron MacLean and Don Cherry, who have become synonymous with the show’s identity.
A brand that endures
CBC’s new Saturday night sports program will spotlight Canadian competitors both at home and abroad, offering a platform for emerging talent and established stars. The move aligns with the corporation’s commitment to showcase national achievements and to deepen its Olympic portfolio, which extends well beyond the current cycle.
Financially, the shift underscores the magnitude of the NHL’s recent deal with Rogers. The league and the Canadian broadcaster renewed their agreement for another 12 years, a contract valued at $11.2 billion Canadian dollars. Sportsnet will retain its flagship Saturday night NHL broadcasts, ensuring continuity for viewers who rely on the network for live hockey.
The change also ripples through the wider media ecosystem, where commercial players such as Amazon and TVA Sports continue to negotiate rights and distribution deals. For CBC, the focus now is on leveraging its historic brand while investing in home‑grown sports content that reflects Canada’s diverse athletic landscape.