At least two CFL teams unsure about playing games in 2020: report

It appears that not all nine CFL teams are in agreement regarding the 2020 season.

Sportsnet’s Arash Madani reported on Thursday afternoon that at least two privately-owned teams are unsure about playing a shortened season.

Per #CFL sources: There are at least two privately-owned franchises in the league unsure at the moment on whether or not they want to proceed with playing games at all this year. All three community-run teams are in favour of a shortened season. Story coming…

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— Arash Madani (@ArashMadani) May 28, 2020

Playing games would allow the league to draw revenue from its television contract, but it remains unclear if fans will be able to attend games. Paying player salaries and travel expenses without gate revenue could lead to big losses for private owners, which could explain why some teams may prefer not to play a shortened season.

Madani also reported that all three community-owned teams — Edmonton, Saskatchewan, and Winnipeg — are in favour of playing a shortened season.

CFL chief financial officer and head of football operations Greg Dick believes a decision regarding the 2020 season must be made by August. Commissioner Randy Ambrosie hasn’t specified a timeframe, though he told TSN 1290 that the “drop dead date” is his to decide. He has also stated that the earliest games could be played is September.

The league recently allowed teams to reopen their training facilities, though there are a number of restrictions in place regarding usage.

3Down Staff