Amar Doman offers upbeat financial outlook for CFL and B.C. Lions

Amar Doman has pushed back against long-standing claims surrounding the financial struggles of CFL teams, insisting the league is in a far stronger position than many believe.

The B.C. Lions owner questioned reports suggesting only a small number of CFL franchises are profitable, arguing that such figures can often be misleading due to the different financial structures and tax approaches used by private companies.

According to Doman, the CFL is currently enjoying one of its healthiest periods in recent memory, pointing to stronger ownership groups, improved financial backing, and greater league-wide stability compared to previous years. While acknowledging challenges still exist, he believes the league has made major strides over the last five years and is now on solid footing.

When discussing the Lions’ own financial outlook, Doman stopped short of revealing specific figures but expressed confidence that the franchise is moving in the right direction. Since taking ownership in 2021, he believes the club has continued to grow and remains on course for long-term success.

The financial optimism surrounding the CFL has also been boosted by increasing league revenues and a lucrative new broadcast agreement with Bell Media and DAZN, set to begin in 2027. CFL commissioner Stewart Johnston has already described the deal as a major financial uplift, with reports valuing the agreement at close to $500 million.

Doman welcomed the new arrangement, calling it a major moment for the CFL and highlighting the confidence shown in the league through such a substantial investment. He believes the deal will strengthen financial stability for all nine franchises.

B.C. Lions president Duane Vienneau also hinted that the incoming television revenue could significantly improve the club’s financial position, saying the organisation has steadily improved under Doman’s ownership and will benefit greatly from the new agreement.

Away from broadcast income, the Lions may also be set for a financial boost through ongoing lease negotiations with BC Place. The franchise hopes to secure improved terms, potentially including access to revenue streams such as concessions, alcohol sales, parking, and other stadium-related income — opportunities Doman says are crucial for long-term sustainability.

He admitted that operating in BC Place has presented financial challenges, particularly when compared to other sports teams that enjoy greater control over venue revenues. Still, Doman acknowledged the complexities involved due to the stadium’s public ownership.

Despite frustrations, attendance at Lions games has increased significantly during Doman’s tenure, helped by high-profile kickoff concerts featuring major artists. The owner has personally invested heavily in promoting the club and improving fan experiences.

Although BC Place remains far larger than ideal for CFL crowds, Doman noted that finding a more suitable stadium in the Lower Mainland remains unrealistic due to limited land availability and infrastructure challenges.

The Lions owner has also backed major projects off the field, including a temporary stadium in Kelowna and upgrades to the team’s Surrey training facility, while longer-term plans for a new permanent base continue to be explored.

For Doman, continued investment remains the key to growth. He believes that putting money back into clubs and infrastructure leads to success — a philosophy he feels is already paying off in B.C. and could help shape a stronger future for the CFL as a whole.