Rogers Acquires 75% Stake in MLSE

Rogers Communications has acquired BCE Inc.'s 37.5% stake in Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE) for $4.7 billion, making Rogers the majority owner with a 75% stake. MLSE oversees major sports teams including the Toronto Maple Leafs, Toronto Raptors, Toronto FC, and Toronto Argonauts. The transaction is subject to league and regulatory approvals and is expected to close in mid-2025. Bell Media secured long-term content rights for Maple Leafs and Raptors games on TSN for the next 20 years. This move allows BCE to reduce its debt and focus on transforming from a telecommunications firm to a tech company. Fans and analysts are divided, with some NHL fans expressing disappointment over the consolidation of ownership.