rogers and NHL Ink Landmark $11 Billion Broadcast deal
Rogers Communications and the National Hockey League (NHL) have solidified their partnership with a new 12-year broadcast rights agreement valued at $11 billion CAD. The deal ensures that NHL games will be broadcast across all Rogers platforms in Canada through the 2037-38 season.
Key Takeaways: Rogers NHL Broadcast Deal
- Massive Investment: Rogers commits $11 billion CAD for NHL national media rights.
- Long-Term Partnership: The 12-year agreement extends through the 2037-38 season.
- Extensive Rights: Includes national rights across all platforms in all languages.
- Reduced Blackouts: Aims to convert regional games into nationally-televised broadcasts.
- Future of CBC: Potential for continued partnership remains open.
Deal More Than Doubles Previous Agreement
The new agreement represents a meaningful increase over the current rights deal, which cost $5.2 billion over 12 years and is set to expire next season. While the financial commitment is considerable, Rogers executives express confidence in the continued growth and value of live sports content.
Viewership Growth drives Revenue
Rogers CEO Tony Staffieri emphasized that the value of live sports content continues to rise, driven by consistent viewership growth. Sportsnet’s revenue has reportedly more than doubled since 2013, fueled by advertising, subscription, and sub-licensing revenue.
More Nationally Televised Games, Fewer Blackouts Promised
Fans can anticipate potentially fewer blackouts as Rogers plans to convert more regional games into national broadcasts. Rogers Sports & Media president Colette Watson said the new agreement includes the right to broadcast up to 10 more games on certain teams nationally, with the specific matchups to be resolute each season.
CBC’s Future involvement Uncertain
The role of the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC), which has televised NHL games on Saturday nights since 1952, remains uncertain under the new agreement. Though, both Rogers and CBC representatives have indicated a willingness to explore potential partnerships in the future.
Strategic Sub-Licensing Opportunities
The agreement allows for strategic sub-licensing, including national French-language broadcasts and a single-night exclusive national package. Rogers executives will explore potential sub-licensing opportunities that align with their overall strategy.
Will this deal affect the price of Sportsnet subscriptions?
Rogers and NHL Ink Landmark $11 Billion Broadcast Deal: Q&A
Get the inside scoop on the massive new NHL broadcast deal between Rogers Communications and the NHL. We break down the key details, address yoru burning questions, and offer insights into what this means for hockey fans.
Q&A: Unpacking the NHL Broadcast Deal
- Q: How much money is involved in this deal?
A: rogers is investing a staggering $11 billion CAD over 12 years (through the 2037-38 season) for the national media rights. That’s a significant increase from the previous deal.
- Q: Will I see fewer blackouts?
A: Potentially, yes! rogers plans to convert more regional games into national broadcasts, meaning you could watch more games without blackout restrictions. The deal allows for up to 10 more games on certain teams to be broadcast nationally.
- Q: What platforms will the games be on?
A: The agreement covers all rogers platforms, meaning you can watch games on TV, streaming services, and other platforms.
- Q: What about French-language broadcasts?
A: The deal includes provisions for strategic sub-licensing, including national French-language broadcasts.
- Q: What about CBC?
A: The future of CBC’s involvement is uncertain,though there is room for a potential partnership. CBC has aired NHL games on Saturday nights as 1952, so fans will be watching closely.
- Q: Why is Rogers making such a big investment?
A: Live sports content continues to command a high value, driven by consistent viewership growth.Sportsnet’s revenue has more than doubled as 2013, fueled by advertising, subscriptions, and sub-licensing.
- Q: What does “sub-licensing” mean?
A: Sub-licensing involves Rogers allowing another company or broadcaster to air NHL games. This could involve French-language networks or a single-night exclusive national package.
- Q: How does this compare to deals in the US?
A: While specific details on US deals were not in the original article, it’s certainly worth noting that media rights deals in the US are also extremely lucrative, even though the landscape is different due to the number of national and regional networks. The NHL has a good relationship with ESPN and TNT in the US.
This landmark deal promises an exciting future for NHL fans in Canada. Stay tuned for more updates as the season approaches!
