Rogers Communications Inc. (TSX: RCI-A, RCI.B; NYSE: RCI) announced on October 1, 2026, that it has completed its acquisition of Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE), bringing its ownership to 100%. The company purchased the remaining 25% stake from Kilmer Sports Inc. for C$4.35 billion, creating one of North America's most significant integrated communications, sports, and entertainment enterprises. The deal positions Rogers as the sole owner of some of Canada's most iconic professional sports franchises, a development investors in Canada's telecom and media sector will be watching closely.

Key Points

  • Rogers Communications Inc. (TSX: RCI-A, RCI.B; NYSE: RCI) is a Canadian communications, sports, and entertainment company headquartered in Toronto.
  • Rogers has completed its acquisition of the remaining 25% stake in MLSE from Kilmer Sports Inc., reaching 100% ownership.
  • The purchase price for the remaining 25% stake was C$4.35 billion.
  • Investors may watch for details on the new Rogers Sports business unit structure and the company's third-quarter 2026 financial results, scheduled for October 23, 2026.

Rogers Reaches Full MLSE Ownership With C$4.35 Billion Purchase From Kilmer Sports

Rogers acquired the final 25% ownership stake in MLSE from Kilmer Sports Inc. for C$4.35 billion, completing a transaction that gives the Toronto-based telecommunications giant outright control of a portfolio that includes the Toronto Maple Leafs (NHL), Toronto Raptors (NBA), Toronto FC (MLS), Toronto Argonauts (CFL), Scotiabank Arena, and a partnership with Live Nation. Combined with Rogers' existing assets — the Toronto Blue Jays, Rogers Centre, Sportsnet, over 30 television networks, and over 40 radio stations — the company now controls an extensive national sports and media footprint.

New Rogers Sports Business Unit to Consolidate MLSE and Blue Jays Operations

Rogers announced it will establish a new business unit called Rogers Sports, which will bring together all of the company's sports, media, and entertainment holdings, including MLSE and the Toronto Blue Jays. The release states that Rogers will now work to build the best operating model for this unit. In the interim, current leadership remains in place: Keith Pelley continues as President and CEO of MLSE and will assume additional accountability for Rogers Media, while Mark Shapiro remains President and CEO of the Toronto Blue Jays. The company did not disclose a specific timeline for finalising the Rogers Sports operating structure.

Commitment to Championship Investment and Fan Experience Across Toronto's Major Teams

In the announcement, President and CEO Tony Staffieri stated that Rogers is "fully committed to investing to build championship-calibre teams" and to enhancing the fan experience. Executive Chair Edward Rogers also addressed the personal significance of sports team ownership to Canadian fans. These commitments were framed as long-term strategic priorities; however, specific capital expenditure targets or investment figures related to team operations were not disclosed in the announcement. The immediate share price impact was not clear from available public information.