Canada Soccer strikes new 12-year rights deal and projects major revenue gains

Canada Soccer reached a reworked 12-year agreement with Canadian Soccer Business (now Canadian Soccer Media & Entertainment) that CEO Kevin Blue says will deliver "well over $100 million" more in net revenue over the contract; the deal runs Jan. 1, 2026 through Dec. 31, 2037 and includes revenue-sharing terms and commitments on broadcast distribution and equal exposure for men’s and women’s teams.

Canada Soccer has reworked its long-disputed commercial rights arrangement with Canadian Soccer Business, which rebranded as Canadian Soccer Media & Entertainment (CSME). The new agreement runs from Jan. 1, 2026, through Dec. 31, 2037, with a mutual option for a five-year extension. CEO Kevin Blue projected the governing body will receive "well over $100 million" more in net revenue across the contract than under the previous deal. The agreement was released largely in full and includes new governance and revenue-sharing provisions. Key details: - The contract length is 12 years, from 2026 to 2037, with three-year "look-in" periods to review market alignment and a mutual five-year extension option. - Revenue sharing is tiered: the parties split the first $10 million of adjusted gross revenue annually, and Canada Soccer’s share increases with total revenue, reaching 70% at $22.5 million and above. - The deal includes either an additional $19.5 million paid in two lump sums or a revision so Canada Soccer receives 70% of adjusted gross revenue starting Jan. 1, 2029. - A minimum annual guarantee is included as a safety net, though Canada Soccer does not expect to need it. - The agreement commits to wide broadcast distribution for senior home matches and Canada-friendly international windows, with equal exposure of the men’s and women’s teams described as a guiding principle. - The partnership expands to cover licensing alongside sponsorship and media rights and introduces a joint governance structure involving leaders from both organizations. Summary: The deal is presented as a major commercial rewrite intended to increase net revenues and to fund national team programs, coaching, referees and grassroots initiatives through reinvestment of incremental income. It also aims to broaden broadcast access and formalize joint governance. The agreement is expected to clear the path toward labour settlement discussions that had been tied to a revamped commercial relationship. The contract takes effect Jan. 1, 2026, and includes scheduled reviews every three years; further outcomes are undetermined at this time.