Soccer league looks to add 2 teams in Canada by 2026
The Canadian Premier League has unveiled plans to expand by two teams in 2026, with discussions underway in various cities across Canada. Commissioner Mark Noonan announced the league’s intention to add new teams during the 2026 season, with talks ongoing with potential investor groups and municipalities in Edmonton, Laval, Kelowna, Kitchener, Waterloo, Windsor, Quebec City, Saskatoon, and the Toronto area.
“Our goal is to thoughtfully expand the CPL into new markets to ensure success,” Noonan stated. “With the momentum we are building and the upcoming World Cup 2026, there has never been a better time to invest in Canadian soccer.”
Currently, the CPL has teams in eight cities, including Victoria, Vancouver, Calgary, Winnipeg, Toronto, Hamilton, Ottawa, and Halifax. The league’s championship game, known as the North Star Cup, will see Calgary’s Cavalry FC and Hamilton’s Forge FC face off this Saturday.
Edmonton was a founding team in the league but faced challenges with attendance and performance, leading to its takeover and eventual folding in 2023. However, a recent test game between Vancouver FC and Cavalry FC in Kelowna drew a crowd of nearly 6,300 fans, demonstrating the potential for growth in new markets.
Noonan emphasized the importance of expansion at the right time and in the right place, highlighting criteria such as a suitable playing facility, strong ownership group, municipal support, corporate sponsorship, and fan engagement for new teams. He also noted that expanding the league will enhance the player pipeline and overall development of soccer in Canada.
As the CPL looks to grow and attract more fans, the addition of new teams will provide increased content and opportunities for player development. The league’s expansion plans align with its vision for continued growth and success in Canadian soccer.
This report by The Canadian Press originally published on November 8, 2024, highlights the exciting developments in store for the Canadian Premier League as it prepares for expansion in 2026.
