A recent national poll indicates that nearly half of Canadian Football League enthusiasts either approve of or are okay with the upcoming rule adjustments in the league. However, a significant majority, almost two-thirds, believe that this is not the appropriate time to align the CFL more closely with the American football style.
CFL Commissioner Stewart Johnston unveiled a series of rule modifications to be phased in over the next two years. Starting in 2026, the league will discontinue awarding a single point for field goals, punts, or kickoffs that go through or out of the end zone. Additionally, a 35-second automatic play clock will replace the current 20-second allowance after officials signal a play.
By 2027, the playing field will be reduced from 110 yards to 100 yards, the end zones will shrink from 20 yards to 15 yards, and the goalposts will be relocated from the goal line to the back of the end zones.
Surveying 1,230 Canadian adults between October 6 and 14, conducted by Winnipeg’s Probe Research, revealed that 30% of respondents were aware of the proposed rule changes. Of those surveyed, 11% identified as devoted CFL fans who attend games or watch them on TV, while another 29% occasionally watch games or check scores.
Among the engaged and casual fans surveyed, 42% expressed support or partial support for the impending rule modifications, while 20% opposed the changes. A significant 37% did not express a clear opinion on the alterations.
The survey indicated that Saskatchewan and Manitoba exhibited stronger opposition to the proposed rule changes, with 35% of respondents in these provinces voicing disapproval. A follow-up survey of 448 Manitoba adults suggested even higher resistance, with 45% of respondents in Manitoba disliking the rule changes.
Of the CFL followers nationwide, 62% expressed the most support for the new 35-second play clock, while 59% endorsed or could accept eliminating the single point for balls passing through the end zone. Support for other changes varied slightly, with 55% favoring shorter end zones, 54% supporting moving the goalposts, and 53% backing the field size reduction.
Moreover, 64% of CFL followers agreed that now is not the right time to introduce changes making the CFL more akin to the NFL. Additionally, 42% stated that they would cease watching CFL games if the alterations were implemented.
The survey also revealed that half of CFL enthusiasts find the league less engaging than the NFL, with 59% believing that the proposed changes would enhance the excitement of the Canadian game.
Probe Research Principal Curtis Brown highlighted the delicate balance the CFL faces between tradition and innovation with these rule adjustments. He mentioned the challenge of attracting a broader audience while avoiding alienating loyal fans who cherish the CFL as a uniquely Canadian sport.
The Canadian Football League declined to comment on the survey findings.
The national survey by Probe Research employed a national online survey provider, with the Manitoba subsample utilizing Probe’s exclusive online panel. The sample was statistically weighted to mirror Canada’s demographics based on age, gender, and region.