Canada Sport News

Edmonton Elks, previously community-run, to be sold to private owner Larry Thompson

Edmonton Elks, previously community-run, to be sold to private owner Larry Thompson

August 13, 2024

EDMONTON — Larry Thompson is the new private owner of the Edmonton Elks.

A CFL source requesting anonymity said the former owner of Thompson Brothers Construction will become the franchise’s new owner.

The source spoke on the condition of anonymity because neither the CFL nor the Elks have publicly confirmed the sale.

With Thompson taking over, the CFL now has just two community-owned franchises — the Saskatchewan Roughriders and Winnipeg Blue Bombers.

The Elks (2-7) sit last in the CFL’s West Division but have won two straight.

Last month, the team fired head coach and general manager Chris Jones following a 0-5 start. The club had a record of 8-33 over two-plus seasons during Jones’s second tenure with the team, including two seasons (2021, 2022) without a win at Commonwealth Stadium as part of a record 22-game home losing streak. The team hasn’t made the playoffs since 2019.

The Edmonton Elks, a Canadian Football League (CFL) team that has been community-run for decades, is set to be sold to private owner Larry Thompson. This news has sparked a mix of excitement and concern among fans and stakeholders in the Edmonton sports community.

The Edmonton Elks have a rich history in the CFL, with a loyal fan base and a strong presence in the city. The team has been owned by the Edmonton Eskimo Football Club, a non-profit organization, since its inception in 1949. However, in recent years, the team has faced financial challenges and struggled to compete with other CFL teams.

The decision to sell the team to private owner Larry Thompson comes as a result of these financial difficulties. Thompson, a local businessman and sports enthusiast, has expressed his commitment to revitalizing the team and bringing it back to its former glory. He has stated that he plans to invest in the team’s infrastructure, marketing, and player development in order to improve its performance on the field and increase its revenue off the field.

While some fans are excited about the potential for growth and success under Thompson’s ownership, others are concerned about the implications of moving from a community-run model to a private ownership model. There are fears that Thompson’s ownership could lead to increased ticket prices, changes in team culture, or a shift away from community engagement initiatives.

Despite these concerns, Thompson has assured fans that he is committed to maintaining the team’s connection to the community and preserving its legacy. He has stated that he plans to work closely with local stakeholders, including fans, sponsors, and community organizations, to ensure that the team remains a vital part of the Edmonton sports scene.

Overall, the sale of the Edmonton Elks to private owner Larry Thompson represents a new chapter in the team’s history. While there are uncertainties and challenges ahead, there is also hope and excitement for what the future holds for this beloved CFL team. Fans will be watching closely as Thompson takes the reins and works to build a successful and sustainable future for the Edmonton Elks.