Hockey Canada loses another sponsor as Telus joins growing exodus

'If we have to create an organization, get rid of Hockey Canada and create an organization called Canada Hockey instead, people will look at doing that,' Justin Trudeau said.

Hockey Canada is losing more major sponsorships ahead of the 2022-23 season due to continued concerns from companies about the federation’s handling of sexual assault allegations.

The flight of sponsors comes as Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Thursday warned that Hockey Canada’s refusal to take the matter seriously could spur efforts to “get rid” of the organization.

In the last 24 hours, Telus, Tim Hortons and Scotiabank have all confirmed they will not support men’s hockey programs in the upcoming season.

“We are deeply disheartened by the lack of action and commitment from Hockey Canada to drive necessary cultural change,” a spokesperson for Telus wrote in the latest statement.

“TELUS will not be sponsoring Hockey Canada’s men’s hockey programs for the 2022-23 season, including the upcoming World Juniors tournament. We remain passionate fans and supporters of the sport of hockey and stand committed to enabling systemic change to make hockey safe for all.”

As the backlash continues to grow, Prime Minister Trudeau slammed Hockey Canada leadership as he walked into a cabinet meeting on Thursday.

“Hockey Canada has completely lost the confidence of Canadians,” he said.

“The longer it takes (Hockey Canada) to realize that, the more difficult it’s going to be, not just for them, which is fine, but for kids in hockey, for juniors, for people who rely on that organization to play the sport they love and to have winter activities this winter.”