CFL Expansion talk: The 5 Cities that should get a team next and why it makes sense

CFL Expansion Talk: The 5 Cities That Should Get a Team Next — and Why It Makes Sense

CFL expansion has long been a topic of debate, resurfacing whenever attendance rises, television numbers improve, or a new market shows genuine interest in Canadian football. With the league stable at nine teams, the question is no longer ifexpansion should happen — but where it should happen first.

If the CFL does decide to grow, the next franchise must strengthen the league financially, culturally, and competitively. Here are five cities that make the strongest case for CFL expansion, and why each one makes sense.

1. Halifax, Nova Scotia

Why it makes sense:
Halifax remains the most talked-about expansion candidate — and for good reason.

Atlantic Canada has no major professional sports team, yet it consistently supports junior hockey, university football, and national events. A CFL team would instantly become the regional identity, drawing fans from across Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland.

The long-discussed stadium question has been the biggest hurdle, but growing political and commercial interest keeps Halifax firmly at the top of the expansion list.

2. Quebec City, Quebec

Why it makes sense:
Quebec City has proven it can passionately support professional sports.

With a strong sports culture and deep provincial pride, a CFL team could thrive as a natural rival to the Montreal Alouettes. A Quebec City franchise would reignite French-language engagement and boost the league’s presence in eastern Canada.

The city’s infrastructure and fan loyalty suggest that, with the right ownership group, CFL football could quickly take root.

3. Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

Why it makes sense:
Few places in Canada love football more than Saskatchewan.

While the Roughriders already command a province-wide following, Saskatoon’s growing population and strong local identity could support its own team — or at least a shared-market solution. The city has embraced university football and regularly fills stadiums for major events.

A Saskatoon franchise would guarantee instant rivalries, sellout crowds, and one of the loudest atmospheres in the CFL.

4. Kitchener–Waterloo, Ontario

Why it makes sense:
This is an untapped football market with enormous potential.

Located between Toronto and Hamilton, the Kitchener–Waterloo region has a large population, a strong student base, and a thriving tech economy. While proximity to other CFL teams presents challenges, it also creates built-in rivalries and travel-friendly matchups.

With the right branding and stadium solution, the region could attract younger fans and corporate partners alike.

5. Victoria, British Columbia

Why it makes sense:
Victoria offers something the CFL doesn’t currently have — a true Vancouver Island presence.

The city has a growing population, a strong local sports culture, and limited competition from other major professional leagues. A Victoria-based team would open a new geographic footprint in British Columbia and create a natural rivalry with the BC Lions.

The challenge lies in stadium development, but the market itself is appealing for long-term growth.

Should the CFL Expand Now?

Expansion must be done carefully. The league’s history shows that rushing into new markets can be risky. However, modern CFL expansion would be smarter, region-focused, and community-driven — not based on rapid growth for growth’s sake.

A 10th team would balance scheduling, reduce bye weeks, and add fresh energy to the league, if the right city and ownership group are chosen.

Final Thoughts

CFL expansion isn’t about filling a map — it’s about strengthening the league’s future.

Halifax remains the most logical starting point, but cities like Quebec City, Saskatoon, Kitchener–Waterloo, and Victoria all offer compelling cases. If the CFL expands wisely, the next franchise won’t just survive — it will thrive.