Rogers Communications Inc. announced Thursday that it has finalized the purchase of the last quarter of Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE) from Kilmer Sports Inc. for C$4.35 billion. The deal gives Rogers total control of the organization that owns the NHL’s Toronto Maple Leafs, the NBA’s Toronto Raptors, MLS’s Toronto FC, the CFL’s Toronto Argonauts and the Scotiabank Arena.
New Rogers Sports unit
In a press release, Rogers said it will create a new business unit called Rogers Sports that will bring together its existing sports, media and entertainment assets, including MLSE and the Toronto Blue Jays. “Now that we have completed the acquisition, Rogers will now build the best operating model for Rogers Sports,” the statement read.
Leadership comments
Rogers CEO Tony Staffieri said, “Our full ownership of MLSE brings together Canada’s premier communications company with Canada’s premier sports and entertainment organization. It gives us even more opportunity to invest in championship‑calibre teams, create unique experiences for customers and fans, and unlock long‑term value for shareholders.”
MLSE President and CEO Keith Pelley will remain in his role, while also overseeing Rogers’ media holdings. Blue Jays President and CEO Mark Shapiro will continue to lead the baseball franchise.
Background to the deal
The transaction follows Rogers’ earlier purchase of a 37.5% stake in MLSE from Bell Canada in September 2024, which gave the company a controlling interest. Within nine months of that deal, Rogers replaced the team presidents of both the Maple Leafs and the Raptors. The final purchase from Kilmer, the holding company of Canadian billionaire Larry Tanenbaum, was first reported by The Athletic in July and required league approvals to close by the end of the year.
Implications for Canadian sports
Full ownership positions Rogers to streamline operations across its sports properties, potentially creating cross‑promotional opportunities between its television networks, streaming platforms and live‑event venues. Analysts note that the integration could enhance fan engagement and open new revenue streams, especially as the league seasons progress toward the 2027 championships.
Rogers also retains ownership of the Toronto Blue Jays and the Rogers Centre, further consolidating its presence in Canada’s major‑league sports landscape.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
