Fans react to new Victoria Day weekend CFL tradition to come

Stampeders fans enjoying a pre-season game on Victoria Day welcome the new format for 2027, when the regular season will begin on the same weekend.

Calgary Stampeders fans are looking forward to some changes in the CFL schedule for 2027.

On Monday, the Stampeders hosted the visiting Grey Cup champs, the Saskatchewan Roughriders, at McMahon Stadium.

It was a pre-season game this year, but in 2027, the regular season will kick off on the Victoria Day weekend.

Fans enjoying the sunny skies tell CTV News they welcome the new tradition.

“I hope it moves a little ahead, so when we do get to the Grey Cup, it’s a little warmer,” said one Stampeders fan.

“I like that they brought the season up,” said another fan. “Hopefully that translates into better weather at the end of the year.”

Another fan said it was a great idea for those who don’t go camping every weekend.

“The more football the better, and the earlier we start, just more fun for everyone,” another said.

The schedule adjustment is part of a broader set of changes coming to the CFL next season, including a field redesign and a new playoff format.

With files from CTV News’ Moses Woldu