CFL, CFLPA submit federal government financial aid request focused on playing shortened 2020 season

The Canadian Football League and its players’ association have agreed on a proposal for government funds required to return to play in 2020 amid the COVID-19 crisis.

TSN’s Dave Naylor reports: The CFL has submitted its request for financial aid to the federal government, with the CFLPA endorsement. 100 per cent to be directed towards playing a shortened 2020 season, with money to cover player salaries and operating costs. Not subsidizing losses due to pandemic.

In a later tweet, Naylor continued: Amount of recent CFL ask for federal assistance is believed to be in range of 1/4 of the $150 million dollar figure reported in the spring. Ask is designed to be consistent with government mandate to put people back to work.

This is a positive step for the league’s relationship with players after commissioner Randy Ambrosie was roundly criticized for excluding players from his initial federal financial ask. The relationship between Ambrosie and players had significantly deteriorated and he has lost trust with many in the league through the pandemic.

The CFLPA was sent the conditions the league office would want the players union to agree to for a hub city model. Those conditions for play include an acceptable level of federal or provincial government financial support. The two sides have a deadline of July 23rd to reach an agreement.

The league had originally planned a for an eight game season beginning in early September. The focus has since shifted to a six-game season with a later start, as time ticks down for a decision to be made.