Rogers Communications has shuttered six radio stations across Canada, including Vancouver's Sportsnet 650 and Calgary's Sportsnet 960, as the telecommunications giant restructures its audio portfolio in response to changing listener habits and advertising market conditions. The closures, announced on July 7, 2026, also affect stations in Halifax and other markets.
Stations Affected by the Closure
The six stations that have been taken off the air include Sportsnet 650 in Vancouver, Sportsnet 960 in Calgary, and 95.7 NewsRadio in Halifax, among others. Rogers stated that the decision was "difficult but necessary" as the company shifts resources toward digital and streaming platforms. The affected stations primarily focused on sports and news formats.
Industry Context and Economic Pressures
The closures come amid a broader downturn in traditional radio advertising revenue, which has declined by approximately 12% over the past two years, according to industry data. Rogers has been pivoting toward its mobile and internet services, as well as its sports media properties like Sportsnet TV. The company noted that the radio stations were no longer financially viable in a market where listeners increasingly turn to podcasts and on-demand audio.
Impact on Employees and Communities
Rogers confirmed that affected employees would be offered severance packages and support in finding new roles within the company where possible. However, the exact number of job losses was not disclosed. Local sports fans expressed disappointment on social media, with many noting that Sportsnet 650 and 960 had been staples for live game coverage and talk shows in their respective cities.
Future of Rogers' Audio Strategy
Rogers indicated that it will continue to invest in its remaining radio properties and expand its digital audio offerings, including podcasts and streaming services. The company has not ruled out further consolidation in the sector. According to a Rogers spokesperson, "We are focused on delivering content where our audiences are, and that increasingly means on digital platforms."
