Rogers Takes Full Control of MLSE: The $4.7B Deal That Reshapes Canadian Sports

Rogers Communications has officially sealed the deal to become the majority owner of Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE), acquiring BCE’s 37.5% stake for C$4.7 billion. The transaction closed on July 1, giving Rogers a commanding 75% interest in one of North America’s most valuable sports enterprises.

What Rogers Now Controls

This MLSE ownership move consolidates Rogers’ grip on Canadian sports. The company now controls the Toronto Maple Leafs, Toronto Raptors, Toronto FC, and the venue that hosts them – Scotiabank Arena. Combined with existing assets like the Toronto Blue Jays and Rogers Centre, the telecom giant has built an unprecedented sports portfolio.

CEO Tony Staffieri emphasized the strategic vision: “Live sports are fundamental to our business and fundamental to Canadian fans’ passion.” The company has already invested over $15 billion in Canadian sports over the past decade and signals more capital is coming to chase championships.

The Bigger Picture: Rogers’ Sports Empire

Beyond MLSE ownership, Rogers controls Canada’s top sports broadcaster Sportsnet and holds exclusive national media rights to the NHL through 2037-2038. The company also maintains long-term partnerships with three major NHL franchises – the Vancouver Canucks, Edmonton Oilers, and Calgary Flames.

Edward Rogers, Executive Chair, stated the mission plainly: “We’re committed to winning and bringing more championships to fans in Canada.” This acquisition transforms the MLSE from a multi-shareholder asset into a Rogers-controlled operation, enabling faster decision-making and unified strategic direction.

How It Gets Funded

Rogers financed the purchase primarily through revolving bank credit facilities supplemented with cash reserves. Staffieri noted that MLSE represents “a valuable and appreciating asset” that will “unlock more value for Rogers shareholders” while “building something that lasts on the ice, on the court, on the field.”

The deal received all necessary regulatory and league approvals before closing, marking a watershed moment in Canadian sports consolidation.