Canada: Sport

Following the acquittal of five Junior Hockey players on sexual assault charges, Hockey Canada has announced continued suspensions for four of the accused, with some lasting until 2030. The decision by an independent appeal board found code of conduct violations despite the criminal court's ruling, raising questions about accountability in hockey culture and the treatment of sexual assault allegations in sports.

Many sports feature controversial rulings made by game officials. In Major League Baseball (“MLB”), the Toronto Blue Jays have been part of at least two highly controversial run scoring rulings which have driven fans wild.

When promotion and relegation rules in professional sports leagues create unequal treatment between teams, they may raise significant competition law concerns beyond mere sports governance. A recent Belgian Competition Authority decision demonstrates how league rules protecting certain teams from relegation while disadvantaging others can attract regulatory scrutiny, with potential implications for how Canadian competition law might evaluate similar frameworks in professional sports.

Over the past decade, professional sports teams have evolved into one of the most compelling alternative asset classes in global finance. Once regarded primarily as trophy assets, sports franchises are now increasingly recognized for their long-term appreciation potential and strategic role within diversified investments.

The Future of Sport in Canada Commission, led by Commissioner Lise Maisonneuve, former Chief Justice of the Ontario Court of Justice, has delivered its final report outlining findings...

The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan Cortina delivered two unforgettable weeks of historic performances, and figure skating once again proved it is one of the event's crown jewels.

Infringement by common design was established for the first time in Canada by the Federal Court (FC) in the decision Adeia Guides Inc. v. Videotron Ltd, released on Nov. 14, 2025.

December 5 and 6, 2025 marked major milestones on the road to the FIFA World Cup 2026™. The final groups were drawn on December 5, and the next day FIFA...

As the world prepares for the FIFA World Cup 2026 across Canada, the U.S., and Mexico, Sideline Conversations takes you beyond the pitch to explore the legal and commercial...