For nearly eight decades, the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation has been the voice that brought the nation’s most beloved hockey moments into living rooms across the country. From the first radio transmission of an NHL game in 1936 to the iconic television broadcasts that defined Saturday nights, CBC’s partnership with the league has been a cultural touchstone. The final CBC‑produced edition of Hockey Night in Canada aired in June 2014, marking the end of an era that began when the league first partnered with the public broadcaster.
Rogers steps in with a long‑term vision
The decision follows a new sports programming strategy that emerged after the successful Milano and Cortina d’Ampezzo Olympic Games, a milestone that highlighted CBC’s ability to deliver major international events. With the new strategy in place, CBC will focus on other programming while handing over the NHL rights to Rogers, which has held the broadcast since 2014.
Rogers’ 12‑year agreement, valued at approximately C$11 billion, not only secures the continuation of Hockey Night on Sportsnet but also commits significant resources to production and ancillary content. Industry observers view the deal as a watershed moment for Canadian sports media, reflecting the growing appetite for premium live‑event rights among private broadcasters.
A new chapter for Canadian hockey
For viewers, the transition means that the familiar Saturday night ritual will now be delivered through Sportsnet’s platform, which will retain the iconic theme music, on‑air talent and family‑centric presentation. The move also paves the way for expanded digital access, with streaming options expected to broaden across Rogers’ media properties.
While the end of CBC’s tenure marks the close of a historic chapter, the continuation of Hockey Night on Sportsnet ensures that the ritual of gathering to watch the game persists. The partnership also signals a renewed focus on cross‑platform storytelling, blending television, online streaming and social media to reach a younger audience. As the league looks ahead, the collaboration between Rogers and the NHL may set a template for future sports broadcasting agreements in Canada and beyond.