Hockey Canada announced a long-term media rights extension with Canadian television channels TSN and RDS ©Hockey Canada

Hockey Canada has announced a long-term media rights extension with Canadian television channels TSN and RDS.

The governing body announced the agreement that is set to last until the 2033-2034 season, continuing a partnership that began in 1991. 

It ensures that TSN and RDS will continue to hold the exclusive, multi-platform media rights to Hockey Canada events, including the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) World Junior Championships. 

Other international events include the IIHF Women's World Championships and the Under-18 World Championships. 

The channels also retained the rights to domestic competitions such as the World Junior Challenge, Canadian Tire Para-Hockey Cup and the National Women's Under-18 World Championships. 

TSN is the English-language sister network of RDS

TSN and RDS broadcast both international and domestic competitions featuring Hockey Canada ©TSN
TSN and RDS broadcast both international and domestic competitions featuring Hockey Canada ©TSN

"For 30 years, Hockey Canada, TSN, and RDS have benefitted from a broadcast relationship that has built from grassroots programs and initiatives through to our national and international championships," said Scott Smith, Hockey Canada President and chief operating officer.

"The traditions and love of hockey have enabled us to share our vision of bringing fans closer to Canada’s game not just through viewership, but also through participation."

Both channels recently broadcast Canada's victory at the 2020 IIHF World Junior Championships in the Czech city of Ostrava.

"Hockey Canada has been an incredibly valued partner of TSN and RDS for decades, and we couldn’t be happier to reach this agreement and to continue to deliver this slate of world-class hockey events," said Stewart Johnston, TSN President. 

"Hockey Canada is the world leader in developing and promoting positive hockey experiences, from elite teams like we’ve seen over the last two weeks to the extensive grassroots programs it runs across the country. 

"As Canada’s sports leader, we are thrilled to partner with Hockey Canada to help fulfill its mission, and we feel privileged to be the country’s long-term home for iconic hockey championships, including the World Juniors and so many more."