GITNUX MARKETDATA REPORT 2024

Statistics About The Most Popular Sport In Canada

The most popular sport in Canada is ice hockey, with over 2.5 million players nationwide.

Last Updated: June 23, 2024

How we write

In the following post, we explore the undeniable dominance of ice hockey as the most popular sport in Canada. Through a comprehensive analysis of various statistics highlighting the sport’s immense following, economic impact, iconic players, and significant cultural events, we shed light on why ice hockey holds a special place in the hearts of millions of Canadians nationwide.

Statistic 1

"Tim Hortons is a major sponsor of youth hockey programs across Canada."

Statistic 2

"Ice hockey is the most popular sport in Canada, with the highest number of registered players."

Statistic 3

"Minor hockey participation has increased by 6% over the last decade."

Statistic 4

"The Participation rate in organized sports by Canadian children (5-14 years) is around 77%, with ice hockey being one of the top sports."

Statistic 5

"Ice hockey viewership peaks during the NHL playoffs each year."

Statistic 6

"Canada has 7 NHL franchises: Montreal Canadiens, Toronto Maple Leafs, Vancouver Canucks, Calgary Flames, Edmonton Oilers, Ottawa Senators, and Winnipeg Jets."

Statistic 7

"The annual Stanley Cup playoffs garner millions of viewers in Canada."

Statistic 8

"Ice hockey contributes over $11 billion to the Canadian economy annually through various sectors including merchandise and event ticket sales."

Statistic 9

"Over 6 million Canadians watch “Hockey Night in Canada” every Saturday night during the NHL season."

Statistic 10

"The Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto sees over 300,000 visitors annually."

Statistic 11

"Toronto Maple Leafs is one of the most supported NHL teams, with a large fanbase across Canada."

Statistic 12

"The annual Hockey Day in Canada event is a 13-hour broadcast that celebrates Canadian hockey culture."

Statistic 13

"Wayne Gretzky, one of the greatest ice hockey players, hails from Canada."

Statistic 14

"More than 605,000 players were registered with Hockey Canada in the 2018-2019 season."

Statistic 15

"The Bell Centre in Montreal is one of the largest hockey arenas in the world, seating over 21,000 fans."

Statistic 16

"Canadian spending on hockey equipment averages about $500 million annually."

Statistic 17

"Around 1 in 10 Canadians play ice hockey regularly."

Statistic 18

"The Rogers Hometown Hockey Tour, which travels across Canada, brings NHL experiences to various communities."

Statistic 19

"The Canada women's national ice hockey team has won 4 Olympic gold medals."

Statistic 20

"Montreal Canadiens have won the most Stanley Cups of any team, with 24 championships."

Ice hockey undeniably holds a paramount status in Canadian culture, as reflected by a multitude of statistics showcasing its immense popularity and impact within the country. From the significant increase in minor hockey participation to the billions of dollars it contributes annually to the economy, ice hockey clearly reigns supreme as the most beloved sport in Canada. The extensive viewership during NHL playoffs, the numerous NHL franchises situated across the nation, and the enduring support for teams like the Toronto Maple Leafs further solidify ice hockey’s unparalleled position in the hearts of Canadians. Moreover, the rich history and tradition surrounding the sport, exemplified by events like the Hockey Day in Canada and the success of teams like the Montreal Canadiens and the Canada women’s national ice hockey team, highlight the deep-rooted connection between ice hockey and Canadian identity. With iconic figures like Wayne Gretzky and monumental venues such as the Bell Centre, it is evident that ice hockey stands as a cornerstone of Canadian sports culture, uniting millions of individuals in their shared love for the game.

Jannik Lindner

Jannik is the Co-Founder of Gitnux and has been working in the digital space since 2016. He is specialized in content and tech.

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