REGINA – The Saskatchewan Roughriders, despite clinching their fifth Grey Cup championship, reported a financial loss of $157,005 for the previous season. This notable deficit contrasts sharply with their record from the 2024-25 season, during which the franchise celebrated a net profit of $2.1 million. These details were unveiled in the annual financial report released by the Roughriders on Wednesday.
Two major factors contributed to last season’s financial downturn. Firstly, the extra expenses associated with the Grey Cup victory added significant costs. Secondly, additional game-day expenses and fan vouchers arose due to the postponement of a regular-season game originally scheduled for July 11, which was affected by wildfire smoke.
The community-owned club's financial report indicated that gross revenues for the season reached $44.7 million, a substantial increase from $40.8 million the previous year. Notably, gate receipts rose to $14.5 million. Despite the loss, the club's Earnings Before Interest, Depreciation, and Amortization (EBIDA) remained robust at $2.3 million, and the stabilization fund showed growth, exceeding $11.3 million.
On the expense side, the Roughriders recorded total expenses of $45.1 million, up from $38.7 million the year before, representing a significant increase of 16.5 percent. A notable 34 percent of these expenses were allocated to football operations, while 14 percent was dedicated to merchandise costs. The demand for merchandise surged following the team’s championship win, yielding revenues of $9.1 million, the highest total in over a decade.
In addition to financial commitments, the Roughriders engaged in a celebratory tour, visiting 38 communities across Saskatchewan to share their Grey Cup victory with fans over two months following the championship. This community outreach not only celebrated their success but also helped to bolster fan engagement and loyalty.
This financial report reflects the dynamic nature of professional sports management, particularly in a community-driven franchise like the Roughriders, where the balance between operational costs and revenue generation can significantly influence overall financial health. The combination of championship-related expenses and fan-centric initiatives illustrates the multifaceted approach the Roughriders are taking to ensure long-term sustainability and engagement with their fan base.
