Regina city council has formally decided to ask the Canadian Football League for financial assistance to replace the artificial turf at Mosaic Stadium, as the league prepares to modify field dimensions next season. The move follows an $8.2-million request from city administration to cover new turf and digital scoreboards at the home of the Saskatchewan Roughriders.
Council Votes on Funding and CFL Approach
Council voted 10-1 in favour of advancing the funds for the two upgrades, and 7-4 in favour of approaching the CFL to help cover the turf cost. Coun. Dan Rashovich, George Tsiklis, Mark Burton and Clark Bezo voted against the CFL request. The total cost of improvements is estimated at $10.4 million, with $2.2 million coming from the existing 2026 capital budget to supplement the $8.2-million request.
New turf had already been budgeted for 2027 as part of a $1.9-million approved capital plan, but it is now folded into the larger $8.2-million package. City staff say both the turf and scoreboards have reached the end of their useful life, and the turf replacement is also necessary to comply with incoming CFL rule changes.
CFL Rule Changes Drive Turf Replacement
The CFL announced last year that it will shorten the playing field and end zones while moving the goalposts, effective for the 2027 season. These changes make a turf replacement mandatory at Mosaic Stadium, which is scheduled to host the 2027 Grey Cup game. The new field dimensions require new markings and adjustments to the playing surface.
Ward 5 Coun. Sarah Turnbull originally suggested during an executive committee meeting that the city press the league or the Roughriders to contribute to the turf cost. Mayor Chad Bachynski, speaking after council's latest meeting, said he has not yet heard from the CFL about the request but remains open to discussion. “We’d welcome an investment from the CFL if they’d like to pitch in,” Bachynski said.
Roughriders and CFL Signals
Earlier this week, while sharing the Roughriders' 2025 financials, CEO Craig Reynolds said the team plans to pay for drilling new holes to accommodate the adjusted goalposts. CFL commissioner Stewart Johnston has also previously hinted that league funds could be available to help pay for new fields. The city’s request now formalizes the ask.
City staff will issue a request for proposals as soon as possible, with plans to award a tender by August and complete all work before the 2027 season begins next May. The timeline ensures Mosaic Stadium is ready for the Grey Cup game in November 2027.
