Rogers Communications Inc. has finalized the acquisition of BCE Inc.’s 37.5 percent stake in Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment, establishing itself as the majority owner of the renowned company. With this transaction, Rogers now possesses a 75 percent ownership interest in the parent company of the Toronto Maple Leafs, Toronto Raptors, Toronto Argonauts, and Toronto FC.
The $4.7 billion deal was successfully completed on Tuesday following the required approvals from regulatory bodies and sports leagues. Tony Staffieri, the CEO of Rogers, lauded MLSE as one of the most esteemed sports and entertainment entities globally.
This acquisition bolsters Rogers’ sports portfolio, which already includes assets such as the Toronto Blue Jays, Rogers Centre, and Sportsnet. Earlier this year, Rogers secured a new 12-year, $11 billion deal with the National Hockey League for national media rights to NHL games until 2037-2038, succeeding its existing 12-year agreement.
Following the acquisition, Rogers now oversees all major men’s professional sports teams in Toronto, including the Toronto Maple Leafs, Toronto Raptors, Toronto Argonauts, Toronto FC, and the Toronto Marlies of the American Hockey League.
