TORONTO — The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) has approved Rogers Communications’ agreement to acquire broadcast media rival Bell Media’s interest in Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment, through the NBA TV Canada arm.
The OK from the CRTC for Rogers to obtain Bell’s stake in Toronto Raptors Network Ltd. was cheered by Tony Staffieri, Rogers’ President/CEO.
Rogers in September 2024 announced that it had reached a deal to acquire Bell’s stake in MLSE for C$4.7 billion to become majority owner of MLSE.
“We’re pleased to receive all the necessary approvals to expand our ownership of Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE),” said Staffieri. “We look forward to closing this strategic deal in early July. MLSE is one of the most prestigious sports and entertainment organizations in the world, and live sports and entertainment are core to our business strategy.”
Rogers previously received approvals from the National Hockey League (NHL), National Basketball Association (NBA), Canadian Football League (CFL), Major League Soccer (MLS), and the American Hockey League (AHL) to become 75% owners of MLSE.
Rogers also received clearance from the Competition Bureau to proceed with the acquisition.
