The Canadian Football League has moved closer to expanding into Quebec City, with a potential franchise owner receiving unanimous conditional approval from the league’s board of governors earlier this month, according to French-language media reports. TVA’s Stephane Turcot first reported the development, which was later confirmed by CFL sources and league commissioner Stewart Johnston.
Quebec City Expansion Gains Momentum With Unanimous Approval
The prospective franchise owner is William Trudel, a former police officer turned real estate developer, according to reports from TVA. Trudel is believed to have been meeting with league officials since shortly after Stewart Johnston became commissioner in the spring of 2025. While serious discussions regarding a Quebec capital franchise first surfaced in June, league leadership has now acknowledged deep engagement with the bid. Johnston confirmed to TVA and TSN on Wednesday that the league has held productive discussions with a very serious and committed group.
https://x.com/StephTurcotTVA/status/2102802323957514469
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As part of the proposed business arrangement between the league and Trudel, the CFL is slated to receive a $25-million franchise fee, according to league sources.
Stadium Funding Rains As the Primary Hurdle for a 10th Franchise
Despite progress on the operational structure of a potential 10th team, the initiative hinges entirely on financing a new facility. According to the TVA report, Trudel proposes building a $350-million multi-use stadium to house the team. Any stadium project of this scale would require substantial financial backing from both municipal and provincial governments. With a Quebec provincial election scheduled for Oct. 5, sources indicate that securing those funding agreements immediately remains a formidable challenge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the potential owner for the Quebec City CFL franchise?
According to TVA reports, real estate developer and former police officer William Trudel is the prospective owner.
How much is the proposed CFL expansion fee?
League sources confirm that the CFL is set to receive a $25-million franchise fee under the agreement.
What is the estimated cost of the proposed stadium?
The TVA report states that the proposed multi-use stadium carries a price tag of $350 million.
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