theBreaker.news Podcast: CFL commish’s bid to save the league gets a rough ride from House of Commons committee

The Canadian Football League could be the veritable canary in the coalmine.

As professional sports seeks a way out of the coronavirus pandemic, some financially suffering leagues will be looking to be rescued by taxpayers. Commissioner Randy Ambrosie said the nine-team, three-down Vancouver-to-Montreal circuit may have to cancel the 2020 season, which would put the Canadian institution's future in doubt.

[caption id="attachment_9902" align="alignright" width="346"] Canadian Football League commissioner Randy Ambrosie on the May 7 virtual meeting of the House of Commons finance committee (HoC)[/caption]

Unlike the National Football League, the CFL cannot afford to play without ticket buyers in the stands. Hence the request for a bailout of up to $15o million, if the 2020 season is cancelled. 

Listen to highlights of Ambrosie's appearance before the House of Commons finance committee, including his answers to tough questions from the NDP's Peter Julian and the Conservative Party's Kevin Waugh.

Julian asked Ambrosie why players were not involved in Ambrosie's committee presentation. Waugh pointed at the recent financial success of community-owned teams on the prairies and the wealth of owners, including Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment and Calgary Sports and Entertainment. 

Plus commentary, Pacific Rim and Pacific Northwest headlines and clips from songs by B.C. politicians who are aiming to lift spirits during the pandemic.

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