When most Canadians talk about professional soccer, the conversation often skips over the Canadian Premier League. That silence speaks volumes, and it needs to change.
Now in its sixth season, the CPL has grown into more than just a springboard for young athletes. It has become a proving ground for emerging Canadian talent, a rallying point for regional pride, and a symbol of the sport’s growing foothold in a country long dominated by hockey.
But despite its progress, the league continues to battle for mainstream recognition in the crowded Canadian sports landscape.
Far too many Canadian fans remain fixated on overseas clubs or Major League Soccer teams like Toronto FC, Vancouver Whitecaps and CF Montreal.
While there is nothing inherently wrong with enjoying top-tier international talent, it’s frustrating how easily the homegrown product is overlooked.
The CPL offers something different and something deeply local.
Clubs like Forge FC in Hamilton, Cavalry FC in Calgary, and Pacific FC in Victoria represent more than just soccer franchises. They are community fixtures that embody local pride and identity. The league’s commitment to developing Canadian talent is one of its defining characteristics.
Every CPL team is required to field a minimum number of domestic players, with rules in place to give significant playing time to those under 21. These quotas are crucial to the future of Canadian soccer. That means many young players who may have otherwise been overlooked are now getting meaningful minutes on the pitch and are gaining opportunities to progress to higher levels.
That includes national team call-ups and transfers to bigger leagues.
Former Pacific FC goalkeeper Emil Gazdov, who signed with CF Montreal last year, is a prime example.
Beyond player development, the atmosphere at CPL matches offers a unique charm.
Games are held in smaller stadiums, often drawing crowds of 3,000 to 6,000 fans. Yet the energy is palpable.
Supporter groups bring passion, colour, and constant chants, a reminder that size isn’t the only measure of a sporting event’s impact. Still, the league faces significant hurdles that are slowing its growth.
One of the biggest challenges is visibility.
CPL matches are not consistently promoted by major media outlets, and broadcasts are limited to a few platforms. If the league is to thrive, it needs support from more than just loyal fans. Media networks must do a better job of covering matches and telling player stories.
Sponsors must be willing to invest in a product that represents Canadian communities from coast to coast. Local governments and institutions can play a role in providing better infrastructure and venue support.
There is also a perception problem. Critics dismiss the CPL as “semi-pro” or “low-tier,” which couldn’t be further from the truth.
The league is fully professional, and the talent on display continues to improve year after year. Numerous players who now represent Canada on the international stage once played in CPL kits.
The CPL’s existence is also critical for closing the gap between grassroots soccer and the global game.
Canada, now ranked 30th on the FIFA men's world rankings, has one of the highest youth soccer participation rates in the world, but until recently, young players had limited pathways to a professional career within the country. The CPL is changing that narrative — slowly, but surely.
As Canada prepares to co-host the FIFA World Cup in 2026, the need to build a sustainable soccer ecosystem has never been greater.
Supporting the CPL is part of that foundation. It means investing in local sports culture, strengthening communities, and giving young athletes the platform they deserve.
