CFL commissioner says Quebec City has emerged as leading contender for expansion

CFL commissioner Stewart Johnston says Quebec City has emerged as a leading candidate for an expansion franchise.

Johnston made the comments Friday at his second state of the league address, saying the CFL has had substantive conversations with a prospective owner in the Quebec capital.

He declined to identify that person, although Quebec real estate developer William Trudel has spoken to Quebec media about his interest in a CFL expansion club.

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Johnston wouldn't say if, or when, a Quebec City franchise might be up and running.

The CFL has long sought a 10th franchise, but Johnston said the league is also talking to other markets in Canada.

He declined to comment when asked directly about Halifax, which previously emerged as a potential expansion city.

Johnston is completing his second season as commissioner after taking over in April 2025 following a lengthy broadcasting career that included serving as president of TSN.

The CFL Players’ Association also holds its annual state of the union Friday ahead of Sunday’s Grey Cup between the Edmonton Elks and Montreal Alouettes at McMahon Stadium.