The Saskatchewan Roughriders announced a net loss of $157,005 for the 2025 season during their annual general meeting on Tuesday night in Regina, even as the team celebrated a Grey Cup championship. The club reported revenues of $44.7 million against expenses of $45 million, a stark contrast to the $2.1 million profit recorded in 2024 when revenues were $40 million and expenses $38.7 million.
Revenue Growth Offset by Championship Costs
President and CEO Craig Reynolds emphasized the organization's dual goals. “First and foremost, the goal of the organization is to win championships and entertain our fans,” he said. “Those two things are interrelated, so when you have a successful year like we did on the field, you’re going to see revenue growth, which is what we saw, but when you have the ultimate success of winning the Grey Cup, you’re also going to have some expenditure growth as well.”
Chief financial officer Kent Paul noted that revenue increased across nearly all business lines compared to 2024, with the exception of CFL distributions and interest and investment income. Football operations accounted for the largest expense category at $15.3 million, or 34 per cent of total costs.
Grey Cup Expenses Exceed $2 Million
Playing in and winning the Grey Cup cost the Roughriders nearly $2 million, representing about four per cent of total revenue. This included travel and accommodation for staff in Winnipeg, as well as post-championship celebrations such as touring the trophy across Saskatchewan. The team also purchased several dozen Grey Cup rings, though Reynolds declined to disclose the total cost, joking only that it was “enough.” He added, “We just want to make sure that we’re providing our players and coaches and team with something that’s appropriate for what they accomplished.”
Reynolds affirmed the expense was worthwhile. “One hundred per cent,” he said. “Our goal is to win championships and entertain our fans and have a team that our fans are proud of and ultimately, that’s the goal.”
Gate Receipts Lead Revenue Sources
Gate receipts remained the largest revenue driver for the Roughriders, generating $14.5 million, slightly above the previous year’s total. Hosting the West final contributed an additional $1.8 million. However, a postponed game in July due to wildfire smoke in Regina resulted in extra game-day costs and vouchers issued to fans, further impacting the bottom line.
The net loss of $157,005 underscores the financial challenges even in a championship season, as the club balanced on-field success with increased operational expenditures.
