Football Canada Congratulates Stewart Johnston on his Appointment as CFL Commissioner
Football Canada proudly congratulates Stewart Johnston on his appointment as the 15th Commissioner of the Canadian Football League.
A lifelong football fan with deep roots in the Canadian sports community, Stewart brings nearly three decades of experience to the CFL from his time at TSN, where he served as President and later Senior Vice-President of Content and Sales for Bell Media.
Stewart assumes the role at a pivotal time, with the CFL well-positioned for future success in deepening its connection with the next generation of fans. His commitment to innovation, community engagement, and entertainment, as well as his recognition of the crucial role amateur and flag football play in building the sport’s future, aligns closely with Football Canada’s mandate to develop and support football from coast to coast to coast.
“I can’t begin to express just how thrilled we are to see Commissioner Johnston take on this important role at such a critical moment for football in Canada,” said Kevin McDonald, Executive Director of Football Canada. “Stewart’s lifelong passion for the sport, combined with his deep understanding of media, grassroots development, and the power of community, makes him an outstanding leader for the CFL’s next chapter. We look forward to working closely with him to continue strengthening the bridge between amateur and professional football, and to grow both boys’ and girls’ participation in tackle and flag football nationwide.”
In his introductory remarks, Commissioner Johnston emphasized the importance of listening, collaboration, and a unified vision across the league’s nine teams. He also acknowledged the urgency of reaching younger audiences, highlighting initiatives like flag football as essential pathways to sustain and grow the Canadian football community for generations to come.
Commissioner Johnston’s lifelong connection to the game reflects the very spirit of Canadian football. His journey, from a young fan dreaming of a CFL football to having his name now etched on that very same ball, is a powerful reminder of the passion and tradition that define our sport and is a testament to why inspiring young people through football matters. The simple love of the game can grow into a lifetime of opportunity, leadership, and impact at the highest levels. At Football Canada, we share Commissioner Johnston’s belief that introducing young Canadians to football, in all its forms, builds not only better athletes but stronger communities. We are excited to collaborate with the CFL to champion the growth of the sport from coast to coast to coast, inspire new generations of fans and athletes, and to remind the world that Canada is, and always has been, a football country.
