A recent survey conducted by the Angus Reid Institute reveals a decline in overall interest in the CFL among Canadians. The study, conducted online from October 7-11, shows that the percentage of Canadians closely following the CFL has decreased from 21% in 2014 and 2018 to 16% in 2025.
The survey indicates that those closely following the league are in favor of maintaining the CFL’s uniqueness compared to the American game. On the other hand, opinions among less-engaged fans are divided, with 61% of non-closely following fans and 53% of casual followers uncertain or preferring alignment with the NFL, in contrast to 46% of avid fans.
The CFL recently announced several rule changes, such as a longer play clock, revised rouge rule, and a smaller field. These changes have sparked mixed reactions from fans torn between upholding tradition and embracing modernization.
Starting next season, teams will no longer be able to score a rouge to win games. Additionally, a 35-second automatic reset on the play clock will be implemented, and team benches will be moved to opposite sides of the field for easier substitutions. The most significant changes will occur in 2027, including shortening the field from 110 to 100 yards, reducing end zones from 20 to 15 yards, and relocating goalposts to the back of the end zone.
Notably, the poll found that two-thirds of avid fans oppose the upcoming field changes, while half of casual followers also disagree with them. Some players, like B.C. Lions quarterback Nathan Rourke, have criticized the new rules, labeling them as “garbage” for lacking player consultation.
However, players like Hamilton Tiger-Cats quarterback Bo Levi Mitchell see the rule changes as a way to modernize rather than Americanize the game, aiming to enhance the on-field product and attract more viewers with a faster pace.
Despite differing opinions, some players, such as Montreal Alouettes linebacker Tyrice Beverette and Saskatchewan Roughriders linebacker Jameer Thurman, remain focused on their game performance, emphasizing that core elements of Canadian football are still preserved despite the upcoming changes.
The Canadian Research Insights Council notes that online surveys like this one cannot be assigned a margin of error due to the lack of random population sampling.
