Rogers completes $4.35 billion takeover of MLSE

Rogers Communications Inc. has completed its acquisition of the remaining 25 per cent stake in Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE) from Kilmer Sports Inc. The transaction is valued at $4.35 billion.

Through this deal, Rogers becomes the sole owner of MLSE, which controls several major Toronto sports franchises, including the Maple Leafs, Raptors, Toronto FC, and the Argonauts. These assets, along with Scotiabank Arena, will be integrated into a new business unit called Rogers Sports.

This new unit will combine MLSE properties with Rogers’ existing sports and media assets, such as the Toronto Blue Jays, Rogers Centre, Sportsnet, and more than 30 television networks and 40 radio stations.

Regarding leadership, Keith Pelley will remain the President and CEO of MLSE, with the added responsibility of overseeing Rogers Media. Mark Shapiro will continue as the President and CEO of the Toronto Blue Jays.