CFLPA was ‘caught off guard’ by CFL-XFL announcement

Photo edit: 3DownNation

TSN’s Matthew Scianitti has reported that the Canadian Football League Players’ Association was unaware of the formalized discussions between the CFL and XFL that were announced on Wednesday.

Hearing the #CFLPA was "caught off guard" by #XFL #CFL announcement, and is meeting this afternoon to discuss next steps, reaction, and public statement. @TSN_Sports

— Matthew Scianitti (@TSNScianitti) March 10, 2021

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As per Scianitti, the CFLPA will meet Wednesday afternoon to prepare a statement and discuss this latest development. It remains unclear exactly how the CFL and XFL could look to collaborate, but any potential agreement could have a large impact on the league’s players.

Commissioner Randy Ambrosie joined the CFLPA’s annual general meeting in late February to take part in critical discussions surrounding the 2021 season.

“Canada has an exciting game and devoted fans, and our discussion with the XFL provides a tremendous opportunity to build on that strong foundation,” CFL commissioner Randy Ambrosie said in a statement.

“We look forward to exploring how we might work with one of the most innovative sports brands in the world to grow the game, engage fans in new ways, and reach new audiences. We look forward to seeing what possibilities our discussions might uncover, and to sharing those with our fans as the process unfolds.”

The 2022 XFL season has been put on hold pending the outcome of the conversations with the CFL.