Rogers Sports & Media: A History of Canadian Broadcasting Evolution
The story of Rogers Sports & Media is a reflection of the broader evolution of the Canadian media landscape. From the early days of experimental radio transmitters to the acquisition of multi-billion dollar sports empires, the company has transitioned from a family-run technical venture into a dominant force in national broadcasting and digital content.
Key Facts
- Founding Roots: Traces back to 1927 with Edward S. Rogers Sr. and the launch of a radio station that became CFRB.
- Major Sports Investment: Secured a 12-year, $5.2 billion exclusive national media rights deal with the NHL in 2013.
- Strategic Pivot: Rebranded from Rogers Media to Rogers Sports & Media in February 2020 to better reflect its asset mix.
- MLSE Ownership: Expanded its stake in Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE) to 75% in 2024, with plans for sole ownership by 2026.
- Recent Expansion: Signed a 2025 licensing agreement with Warner Bros. Discovery for major factual brands like Discovery Channel and HGTV.
Foundations and Early Expansion (1925–2000)
The Rogers legacy began in August 1925 at the Canadian National Exhibition in Toronto, where Edward S. (Ted) Rogers introduced the Rogers Batteryless Radio. This innovation utilized new tubes invented by Rogers Sr., allowing the device to operate via power lines without batteries or converters. This led to the creation of the Standard Radio Manufacturing Corporation Ltd. and the 1927 launch of a transmitter that would eventually become CFRB.
Following the death of Edward Rogers in 1939, the family's involvement in broadcasting paused in the mid-1940s. However, the business resurfaced in 1960 when his son, Ted Rogers, borrowed $85,000 to purchase CHFI, Canada's first FM radio station. This era marked the beginning of aggressive growth, including the formation of Baton Aldred Rogers Broadcasting and the acquisition of CFTO-DT.
Throughout the late 20th century, Rogers expanded its portfolio by acquiring CFMT (Canada's first multicultural station) in 1986 and assets from Selkirk Communications in 1989. The most pivotal move of this period occurred in 1994 with the acquisition of Maclean Hunter broadcasting properties. By 2000, the company gained full ownership of Sportsnet after Bell GlobeMedia divested its stake.
Strategic Growth and Digital Integration (2007–2017)
The late 2000s were defined by the acquisition of major television assets. In 2007, Rogers acquired the Citytv stations following the CRTC's requirement that CTVglobemedia divest them to comply with ownership restrictions. While Rogers launched the CityNews Channel in 2011 to compete with CP24, the network folded in 2013.
Rogers continued to diversify its content offerings through high-profile partnerships and acquisitions:
- The Score: In 2012, Rogers acquired Score Media's broadcast business for $167 million, later rebranding the network as Sportsnet 360.
- FX Networks: A partnership launched FX Canada in 2011, followed by FXX and the FXNOW Canada app in 2014.
- Vice Media: A $100 million joint venture in 2014 led to the launch of Viceland in 2016, replacing The Biography Channel.
The most transformative deal of this era was the November 2013 announcement of a 12-year, $5.2 billion contract for exclusive national NHL media rights, which integrated national telecasts across Sportsnet and CBC Television.
Asset Optimization and Modern Rebranding (2017–2023)
Between 2017 and 2023, Rogers shifted its focus away from print and niche cable assets. The company shuttered G4 Canada in 2017 and Viceland in 2018. In 2019, Rogers exited the publishing industry entirely, selling titles such as Maclean's, Chatelaine, and Hello! Canada to St. Joseph Communications.
In February 2020, the division was rebranded as Rogers Sports & Media to more accurately reflect its shift toward sports and entertainment assets. This period also saw a strategic move into digital advertising, with a 2023 agreement to handle ad sales for the ad-supported version of Disney+ in Canada.
The New Era: Licensing Wars and MLSE (2024–Present)
2024 marked a period of intense competition and expansion. Rogers announced a licensing agreement with Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) to bring brands like Animal Planet, Food Network, and HGTV to its platforms starting in 2025. This move sparked legal disputes with Bell Media, which sought an injunction based on non-compete clauses, and a CRTC complaint from Corus Entertainment regarding market dominance.
Simultaneously, Rogers significantly increased its footprint in professional sports. In September 2024, the company acquired Bell's 37.5% stake in Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE) for CA$4.7 billion, bringing its total ownership to 75%. By July 2026, Rogers intends to exercise its option to become the sole owner of MLSE.
Despite this growth, the company has faced challenges in traditional radio. In July 2026, citing declining revenue and audience trends, Rogers closed six radio stations, including those in Calgary, Halifax, Kitchener, and Vancouver.
| Year | Event/Acquisition | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| 1960 | Purchase of CHFI | Entry into FM radio broadcasting |
| 1994 | Maclean Hunter Acquisition | Massive expansion of broadcasting assets |
| 2007 | Citytv Acquisition | Entry into major-market local television |
| 2013 | NHL Exclusive Rights | $5.2 billion deal for national hockey coverage |
| 2020 | Rebrand to Rogers Sports & Media | Alignment of brand with current asset mix |
| 2024 | MLSE Stake Increase | Expanded control of major sports franchises |
Frequently Asked Questions
How did Rogers Sports & Media start?
The company's roots date back to 1927 with Edward S. Rogers Sr.'s radio transmitter. The modern media business began in 1960 when Ted Rogers purchased CHFI, Canada's first FM radio station.
What was the significance of the NHL deal in 2013?
Rogers signed a 12-year, $5.2 billion contract to become the exclusive national media rightsholder for the NHL, allowing them to broadcast games on Sportsnet and CBC Television.
Why did Rogers sell its magazines in 2019?
As part of a strategic shift toward sports and digital media, Rogers sold its remaining print publications, including Maclean's and Chatelaine, to St. Joseph Communications.
What is the current status of Rogers' ownership of MLSE?
As of September 2024, Rogers owns 75% of Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment after purchasing Bell's stake for CA$4.7 billion. The company announced plans to become the sole owner by July 2026.
Which Warner Bros. Discovery brands will Rogers manage?
Starting in 2025, Rogers will hold Canadian rights to factual brands including Discovery Channel, Food Network, HGTV, Animal Planet, Investigation Discovery, Magnolia Network, Motor Trend, OWN, and Science Channel.