The Grey Cup is the CFL championship football game, but it’s also a cherished Canadian tradition. In this blog post, we’ll talk about the history, importance, and all the excitement surrounding the Grey Cup.

What is the Grey Cup?

It’s the ultimate prize in the Canadian Football League (CFL) and stands as a symbol of Canadian football excellence. Fans look forward to this prestigious event each year – usually taking place every November. With its roots dating back to 1909, the Grey Cup has a long history and has witnessed countless memorable moments on the field. It brings together fans, families, and communities, turning an ordinary football game into a nationwide celebration.

The Legacy of Lord Grey

You may wonder: Why is it called the Grey Cup? The name originates from Lord Grey, who served as the Governor General of Canada in 1909. Lord Grey, an avid sports fan, donated the cup to the Rugby Football Championship of Canada. Over time, the championship evolved into what we now know as the Canadian Football League.

The name serves as a constant reminder of the generous gift from Lord Grey and the championship’s deep roots in Canadian culture.

Winning the Grey Cup

While the Grey Cup offers unparalleled prestige and the chance to write one’s name in Canadian football history, players don’t receive direct financial bonuses for winning. Their motivation to win comes from the sheer honour and recognition that accompanies the championship.

Grey Cup champions receive some gifts, though. They are presented with championship rings, a tangible symbol of their triumph. These rings are highly prized by players and are passed down through generations.

Saskatchewan Roughriders winning the Grey Cup — Credit: Wikipedia

The Significance of the Grey Cup

Often compared to the Super Bowl in the United States, the Grey Cup is one of Canada’s most-watched and celebrated sporting events.

Notable Moments

Over the years, this championship has witnessed countless iconic plays that are now etched in the memories of Canadian football history. Our top two moments include:

In 1989, the Saskatchewan Roughriders won the championship near the bitter end on a single field goal that gave them the extra three points to overcome their tie with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats.

In 2009, Montreal was able to redo a field goal that they originally missed, which led to their ultimate triumph! Why did they get to that? The losing team accidentally had an extra player on the field during the first attempt.

Where to Watch

If you’re eager to catch the Grey Cup action, you’ll need to know where to watch it. Check The Sports Network (TSN) for their broadcast of the game! RDS Broadcast also offers game streaming and commentary in French. CFL+ is also available as the league’s free live streaming service.

BC Lions player throwing football in CFL Grey Cup game. — Credit: BC Lions

Location Matters

The 2023 Grey Cup will take place in Hamilton on Sunday, November 19, 2023. Each year, a new city takes the responsibility as host offering an exciting opportunity for fans to experience the Grey Cup in a new setting.

Grey Cup Festival

The Grey Cup isn’t just about the game; it’s also a party with parades and festivities that surround it. Fans from across the country come together to enjoy the Grey Cup experience, making it a truly memorable event.

2023 sees Hamilton, Ontario as the hosts, so if you are in the area, try coming out to explore Hamilton’s incredible restaurants and see the football-themed festivities that will take over the city this November. Carrie Underwood is going to be there, too! She is set to headline the music festival and will be on stage at FirstOntario Place on Friday, November 17.

For more information about the Festival and how to get tickets, click here.

Understanding the Game

If you’re new to Canadian football, understanding the rules and gameplay is essential. This section provides insights into the basics of the game, making it easier for newcomers to follow all of the action.

Click here to learn more about the CFL history and rules.

As you explore the CFL championship and all that it encompasses, you’ll discover a world of passion, history, and excitement that makes it a quintessential part of Canadian sports culture. Whether you’re a seasoned CFL fan or new to the sport, the Grey Cup has something to offer for everyone.