In a groundbreaking transaction, Rogers Communications has acquired a controlling stake in Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment (MLSE), the parent company of several major sports franchises, including the NBA’s Toronto Raptors. Rogers purchased the stake from Bell Canada Enterprises (BCE) in a deal valued at $3.5 billion. The acquisition marks a significant shift in ownership of some of Canada’s most prestigious sports assets.
Prior to the deal, Rogers and BCE held equal shares in MLSE, each owning 37.5% of the company, while the remaining 25% was owned by businessman Larry Tanenbaum, a long-time figure in Canadian sports and chairman of the NBA’s Board of Directors. Following the acquisition, Rogers now holds a 75% stake in MLSE, giving them control over key assets including the Raptors, MLS team Toronto FC, AHL team Toronto Marlies, and the Scotiabank Arena, a premier venue in Toronto.
In addition to these holdings, Rogers also gained a significant share in another of the city’s beloved teams. As part of the transaction, Rogers acquired BCE’s 37.5% stake in the NHL’s Toronto Maple Leafs, adding to their expansive portfolio of Canadian sports teams. However, Tanenbaum remains a key figure in the Maple Leafs’ ownership, retaining his 25% stake and continuing to play a pivotal role in the Raptors’ operations.
This acquisition solidifies Rogers’ position as one of the dominant forces in Canadian sports and media. By increasing its stake in MLSE, the telecommunications giant now wields more power in one of North America’s most profitable sports markets. The Raptors, who won their first NBA championship in 2019, are a globally recognized franchise with a passionate fan base that drives significant revenue, both in terms of merchandise and broadcasting rights. Toronto FC and the Marlies also contribute to the company’s diverse sports portfolio.
The deal further strengthens Rogers’ influence in the media landscape, as they are expected to benefit from enhanced broadcasting and streaming rights across their platforms. The control of Scotiabank Arena, which hosts numerous major sporting and entertainment events, adds another significant asset to their expanding empire.
For Bell, the sale marks a retreat from sports ownership as the company aims to focus on its core telecommunications business. Rogers’ expanded stake in MLSE now positions them as the leading force in Canadian sports ownership, with an unmatched collection of teams and venues under their control.
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