Canadian Football League changing 2027 season: focus on long-weekends

Canadian Football League (CFL) fans are buzzing after the league announced a major change to its schedule and playoff format this week.

Starting in 2027, the regular season will begin on the Victoria Day weekend instead of in June, with the Grey Cup set for early November.

The move signals a shift to create new CFL traditions and make long weekends serve as “defining moments” in the regular season.

“All summer long, the CFL will be front and centre – exactly where it belongs,” said CFL commissioner Steward Johnston in a statement. “We’re establishing CFL Long Weekends, from Victoria Day to Thanksgiving, to create can’t-miss events for fans in the stadium and those watching at home.”

Under the new post-season format, eight of the nine teams will qualify for the playoffs.

The top two teams in each division will meet in round one, with the winner going to the east and west semi-finals while the losing team will host the winners of the 5 Vs. 8 and 6 Vs. 7 playoff matchups.

Rookie camp and training camps took place last week, and the announcement was made before three players from McMaster University were drafted during the 2026 CFL draft Tuesday night.

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