Item - 2026.EX29.12

Councillor Paul Ainslie recommends that:

1. City Council endorse Toronto as a host city for a major outdoor National Hockey League game akin to the National Hockey League Stadium Series and request that National Hockey League leadership consider Toronto for such an event.
 

2. City Council direct the City Manager to notify Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment of Council’s endorsement of Toronto as a host city for a major outdoor National Hockey League game and pursue such an opportunity with National Hockey League leadership.
 

3. City Council request that the General Manager, Economic Development and Culture engage with the National Hockey League, Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment, Rogers Communications, Destination Toronto and other stakeholders to initiate discussions on hosting the event and explore partnership opportunities.

Toronto is a global capital of hockey, as deserved of a major outdoor NHL game hosted by the Toronto Maple Leafs to celebration this great sport and the traditions surrounding it.  The NHL Stadium Series as a marquee outdoor hockey event that attracts national and international attention, offers a model for a made-in-Toronto hockey showcase which would generate significant economic and tourism benefits. Traditionally held only in U.S. markets, the Stadium Series has never been hosted in Toronto—Canada’s largest city, a global sports destination and an international capital of hockey.

The year 2027 marks the 100th anniversary of the Toronto Hockey Club officially becoming the Toronto Maple Leafs, making this an ideal time to host a major NHL outdoor event in our city. This milestone offers a unique opportunity to celebrate Toronto’s deep hockey heritage while positioning the city as a leader in hosting premier sporting events.

Hosting a major outdoor stadium game in Toronto would:

- Highlight our city’s historic connection to hockey and cultural significance.
- Provide substantial economic impact through tourism, hospitality, and local business engagement.
- Showcase Toronto globally as a premier destination for major sporting events.
 

The game could take place at the Rogers Centre with the roof open, providing a magnificent view of the CN Tower and Toronto’s city skyline—creating an unforgettable backdrop for fans and global broadcasts or another iconic outdoor stadium.

Toronto hosting a major outdoor stadium game would break tradition in a meaningful way, allowing all NHL teams to be considered for participation while reinforcing Toronto’s status as a global sports hub.