City of Hamilton, Tiger-Cats getting $3M from province to support CFL Grey Cup hosting in 2021 and 2023
Published December 1, 2021 at 11:49 am
The City of Hamilton and the Hamilton Tiger-Cats are on the receiving end of a $3 million investment from the Ontario government. The funds will support the return of the Canadian Football Leagues’ Grey Cup festivities to Hamilton.
$1.5 million will go toward the 108th Grey Cup game on Dec. 12, 2021, at Tim Hortons Field and another $1.5 million will be used for the 110th Grey Cup and Grey Cup Festival in Hamilton in 2023.
The province says the investment will help support costs associated with hosting the games, create jobs, boost local tourism, and have an overall positive economic impact.
“Supporting iconic sport tourism events like the Grey Cup delivers substantial benefits, like new jobs, while stimulating both the local and provincial economies,” said Lisa MacLeod, Minister of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries. “It is exciting to welcome the championship back to the province twice in three seasons – to bring people together safely, showcase the Ontario spirit and give visitors a chance to experience all this province has to offer.”
In addition to the game, the funding is expected to support traditional CFL media events; including the Grey Cup Arrival, CFL Awards, Head Coaches Conference, and community events.
“The Grey Cup is this country’s largest annual sporting event and we’re extremely excited to have the opportunity to host such a prestigious Canadian tradition right here in Hamilton in both 2021 and 2023,” said Scott Mitchell, Chief Executive Officer of the Tiger-Cats. “This wouldn’t be possible without the support of the Ontario government, and we can’t wait to celebrate with them and the rest of our partners and loyal CFL fans from across the country at Tim Hortons Field.”
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This year’s game is expected to feature a full-capacity audience at Tim Hortons Field, with every fan fully vaccinated.
“With its support for the 108th and 110th Grey Cups, Ontario is backing one of Canada’s greatest traditions and largest sporting events,” said Randy Ambrosie, Commissioner of the Canadian Football League. “But the government is also making a smart and strategic investment in tourism, hospitality and the economy. Studies have pegged the economic impact of all the activity from the Grey Cup game and surrounding events at between $80 million and $100 million. Ontario is recognizing that Grey Cup is more than great fun – it’s good business.”
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