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Sportsnet

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Sportsnet is a Canadian English-language sports specialty channel owned by Rogers Sports & Media, a division of Rogers Communications. Launched in 1998, it has grown into a national multimedia brand encompassing multiple television channels, radio stations, digital platforms, and production facilities. Its programming is dedicated to comprehensive coverage of professional and amateur sports across Canada and internationally, with a particular emphasis on NHL hockey. The network competes directly with Bell Media's TSN and plays a central role in the Canadian sports media landscape.

History

The channel was launched on October 9, 1998, by Rogers Communications, initially as a competitor to the established TSN. Its early programming heavily featured Major League Baseball coverage, capitalizing on Rogers' ownership of the Toronto Blue Jays. A significant expansion occurred in 2001 with the launch of additional regional channels, creating a four-feed system (Sportsnet Pacific, Sportsnet West, Sportsnet Ontario, and Sportsnet East) to provide localized content. The network's scope and resources were dramatically enhanced following Rogers' landmark NHL national broadcast rights acquisition in 2013, which included multimedia rights for the Toronto Maple Leafs. Further corporate consolidation saw Rogers acquire the remaining stake in Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment in 2012, deepening its integration with major sports franchises.

Programming

Programming is built around live game broadcasts, extensive news and analysis shows, and original documentary series. Flagship news programs include Sportsnet Central and the debate show Tim and Friends. The network produces substantial studio coverage for the NHL, NBA, and MLB. Notable original content includes the long-running interview program Tim & Sid and documentaries like The Drop. It also carries popular non-sports entertainment programming such as WWE's Raw and SmackDown, and has historically broadcast events like the Super Bowl and the Academy Awards.

Sports rights and coverage

The network holds a vast portfolio of exclusive national and regional broadcast rights. Its most prominent property is the national television and digital rights to the NHL in Canada, shared with TVA Sports for French-language coverage, under a deal that runs through the 2025-26 season. It holds exclusive Canadian rights to MLB games, including the World Series, and to NBA broadcasts. Regionally, it is the primary broadcaster for the Toronto Maple Leafs, Toronto Raptors, Toronto Blue Jays, and Vancouver Canucks. Other key rights include Formula One, UFC events, Premier League soccer, and extensive coverage of CFL games.

Platforms and distribution

The brand operates across multiple television channels, including the main national feed Sportsnet 360 and four regional channels (Sportsnet Pacific, Sportsnet West, Sportsnet Ontario, Sportsnet East). Its digital presence is anchored by the Sportsnet NOW subscription streaming service, which offers live and on-demand content. The network also includes radio stations such as Sportsnet 590 The FAN in Toronto and Sportsnet 650 in Vancouver. Content is further distributed through its website, mobile apps, and strong social media engagement on platforms like Twitter and Instagram.

Criticism and controversies

The network has faced criticism for perceived conflicts of interest and biased reporting due to the corporate ownership of major sports teams like the Toronto Maple Leafs and Toronto Blue Jays by its parent company, Rogers Communications. Its NHL coverage, particularly the flagship program Hockey Night in Canada, has been scrutinized for on-air talent decisions and editorial focus. Other controversies have included the handling of high-profile personnel changes, such as the departure of commentator Don Cherry from Coach's Corner in 2019 following controversial remarks, and disputes with cable providers like Videotron over carriage fees.

See also

* TSN (TV network) * Rogers Communications * National Hockey League * Hockey Night in Canada * Sportsnet ONE

Category:Sports television networks in Canada Category:Rogers Communications