CFL goes streaming with large number of games moving away from TSN

Beginning in 2027, fans will notice a big change when it comes to watching CFL games.

The CFL has announced a new six-year extension with Bell Media, the parent company of TSN, to remain as the league’s majority broadcaster. However, they will no longer be broadcasting every game.

The new six-year deal also incorporates DAZN, a well-known online streaming platform.

This new deal will see DAZN take over Saturday Night Football exclusively every week. That’s equivalent to roughly a quarter of the CFL’s 81-game regular season.

As a result, TSN will broadcast 60 of the 81 regular-season games beginning in 2027, along with six playoff games and the Grey Cup. They will also continue to carry Thursday Night Football and Friday Night Football.

The six-year agreement also includes YouTube, which will carry live preseason outings, excluding TSN and DAZN games. YouTube will also provide CFL combine coverage and an all-access unscripted series.

The dollar amount of the agreement was not released, though it is confirmed to be the largest media rights deal in CFL history.

“These record-setting agreements mark a transformative moment for the CFL,” said CFL commissioner Stewart Johnston. “They reflect the deep passion of our powerful fanbase and the accelerating momentum of our league. We are thrilled to be aligning ourselves with Bell Media, Canada’s leading media entertainment company, DAZN, the world’s leading sports entertainment platform, and YouTube, the world’s largest video platform.

“Together, they will unlock new CFL audiences, deliver worldclass entertainment and put the CFL in prime position for its next era of growth.”

Fans wanting to tune into Saturday Night Football in 2027 and beyond will need to have a DAZN subscription. Subscription costs range from $24.99 to $54.99 per month, depending on the package individuals choose.

“They’re going to mount their production here,” Johnston said. “This is going to be hiring commentators and panellists and sideline reporters and behind-the-scenes crews and bringing their perspective on sports production to Canada.

“More voices focused on the CFL, the better, especially when it comes with powerhouse brands like that.”

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