CFL delays Roughriders, Bombers preseason game by an hour due to poor air quality

The CFL has delayed Friday’s preseason game between the Saskatchewan Roughriders and Winnipeg Blue Bombers by an hour due to poor air quality at Mosaic Stadium.

“Due to ongoing air quality conditions, tonight’s preseason game against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers has been delayed to 8 p.m. (10:00 p.m. EST),” the Roughriders said in a statement. “Current weather modelling indicates that the smoke will continue to clear throughout the next several hours, allowing us to safely play football. This evening’s Coors Light Party in the Park has been cancelled. Please keep an eye on Roughriders social media channels for any further updates.”

Earlier in the day, the team released a statement saying it was monitoring air quality conditions but that it did not expect any delays.

In 2019, the CFL and CFL Players’ Association (CFLPA) agreed that players should not practice or play outdoors if the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) is seven or higher. As of 7:00 p.m. EST, air quality in Regina was listed as a 10+ on the AQHI — the highest possible rating — and was forecasted to stay that way into the night.

According to Environment Canada, air quality due to wildfire smoke can fluctuate over short distances and vary considerably from hour to hour.

In the regular season, a game delayed by more than three hours due to weather results in cancellation. It is unclear what the exact requirements are for cancellation in the preseason, where there is no impact on the standings.

This article will be updated as more information becomes available.