Canada is a nation known for its love of sports — from frozen ponds to massive stadiums, athletic passion runs deep across provinces and cultures. In 2026, the popularity of sports continues to evolve, with traditional games holding strong and newer trends rising fast. Based on current viewership numbers, participation rates, media coverage, and cultural relevance, here’s an updated ranking of the 10 most popular sports in Canada in 2026.
| QUICK LINKS | |
|---|---|
| 1. Ice Hockey | 6. Cricket |
| 2. Soccer | 7. Tennis |
| 3. Basketball | 8. Golf |
| 4. Lacrosse | 9. Curling |
| 5. Baseball | 10. Pickleball / Esports |
| FAQs |
1. Ice Hockey
Why Ice Hockey Is #1 in Canada
Ice hockey remains the undisputed king of sports in Canada. From local rinks to NHL arenas, it’s more than just a sport — it’s a national identity. According to a 2024 survey by Statistics Canada, over 38% of Canadians follow hockey closely, and more than 600,000 actively participate in organized leagues. Hockey is taught at a young age and played recreationally well into adulthood across every province and territory.
Key Highlights
| Popularity Rank | 1 |
| Estimated Participants | 0.6M+ |
| Viewership (National) | 18M+ |
| Notable Event | NHL Playoffs, World Juniors |
| Highlights | National winter sport, 7 NHL teams, deep cultural roots |
Notable Canadian Teams
- Toronto Maple Leafs (NHL) – One of the most valuable NHL franchises globally.
- Montreal Canadiens (NHL) – Historic team with 24 Stanley Cups.
- Edmonton Oilers (NHL) – Home to superstar Connor McDavid.
- Team Canada (IIHF tournaments and Olympics)
These teams have massive fan bases. The Leafs and Habs rivalry remains one of the most storied in sports. The Edmonton Oilers, led by Connor McDavid, have revitalized hockey viewership across Alberta.
Major Hockey Events in Canada
- NHL Playoffs
- World Juniors Championship
- Stanley Cup Finals
- Olympic Ice Hockey (Winter Games)
- Hockey Day in Canada
The World Juniors, often hosted in Canada, draws millions of viewers every holiday season. Hockey Day in Canada is a coast-to-coast celebration of grassroots and pro hockey alike. In 2026, Canada’s gold medal win at the IIHF Men’s World Championship reignited patriotic pride.
2. Soccer (Football)
Growing Popularity of Soccer
Soccer has seen tremendous growth in Canada, especially among younger demographics and immigrant communities. As of 2026, it is the most played sport among youth aged 6–17 and the second most watched sport nationally, particularly during international tournaments. Canada’s qualification and participation in the 2022 FIFA World Cup and preparation for the 2026 North American World Cup have bolstered national enthusiasm.
Key Highlights
| Popularity Rank | 2 |
| Estimated Participants | 1.3M+ |
| Viewership (National) | 12M+ |
| Notable Event | FIFA World Cup, MLS Playoffs |
| Highlights | Growing popularity, 2026 World Cup co-host, youth focus |
Notable Canadian Teams
- Toronto FC, Vancouver Whitecaps FC, CF Montréal (MLS)
- Canadian Premier League (CPL) teams: Forge FC, Cavalry FC, York United
- Canada Men’s & Women’s National Teams
Christine Sinclair’s legendary career and Alphonso Davies’ rise with Bayern Munich have helped elevate the sport nationally.
Major Soccer Events in Canada
- MLS Season and Playoffs
- Canadian Championship (Voyageurs Cup)
- FIFA World Cup qualifiers and friendlies
- 2026 FIFA World Cup (partially hosted in Canada)
Anticipation for Canada’s host cities in the 2026 FIFA World Cup is fueling record ticket interest and soccer registrations.
3. Basketball
Canada’s NBA Boom
Basketball has skyrocketed in popularity, thanks in part to the Toronto Raptors’ historic 2019 NBA Championship win. Participation among youth, particularly in urban centres like Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver, is at an all-time high. Canada is now the #1 exporter of NBA talent outside the US, with more than 20 Canadians on NBA rosters in 2026.
Key Highlights
| Popularity Rank | 3 |
| Estimated Participants | 0.8M+ |
| Viewership (National) | 10M+ |
| Notable Event | NBA Season, FIBA Qualifiers |
| Highlights | Canadian NBA talent, Raptors’ impact, local league growth |
Notable Canadian Teams
- Toronto Raptors (NBA)
- Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) teams: Scarborough Shooting Stars, Ottawa BlackJacks
- Team Canada (FIBA)
Players like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jamal Murray, and Andrew Wiggins are household names, inspiring a new generation.
Major Basketball Events in Canada
- NBA Season (Toronto Raptors)
- FIBA World Cup and Olympic Qualifiers
- CEBL Summer League
Toronto’s Scotiabank Arena sells out Raptors games regularly. Basketball is fast becoming Canada’s favourite urban sport.
4. Lacrosse
Canada’s Official Summer Sport
Though less televised than hockey or soccer, lacrosse holds deep historical roots in Canada. It’s the official summer sport of the nation and is played in both indoor (box) and outdoor (field) forms. It is especially popular in Ontario, British Columbia, and among Indigenous communities.
Key Highlights
| Popularity Rank | 4 |
| Estimated Participants | 0.1M+ |
| Viewership (National) | 2M+ |
| Notable Event | NLL Finals, Minto Cup |
| Highlights | National summer sport, Indigenous origins, pro leagues |
Notable Canadian Teams
- Toronto Rock (NLL) – A staple in the National Lacrosse League (NLL).
- Saskatchewan Rush (NLL) – Strong fan base in Western Canada.
- Canadian National Lacrosse Teams
The National Lacrosse League (NLL) attracts strong attendance and viewership, and Canadian universities continue to expand their lacrosse programs.
Major Lacrosse Events in Canada
- NLL Season and Playoffs
- Minto Cup (Junior A)
- World Lacrosse Championships
The Minto Cup is a prestigious junior lacrosse event that garners national attention and showcases rising talent.
5. Baseball
Why Baseball Still Matters
Baseball may not dominate headlines like it once did, but it remains a deeply ingrained part of Canadian sports culture, especially in Ontario and Quebec. Youth leagues are thriving again, and MLB viewership is rebounding thanks to Canada’s lone franchise — the Toronto Blue Jays.
Key Highlights
| Popularity Rank | 5 |
| Estimated Participants | 0.5M+ |
| Viewership (National) | 7M+ |
| Notable Event | MLB Season, WBC |
| Highlights | Toronto Blue Jays in MLB, strong community programs |
Notable Canadian Teams
- Toronto Blue Jays (MLB) – The only Canadian MLB team, beloved nationally.
- Team Canada (World Baseball Classic, Pan Am Games)
- Vancouver Canadians (MiLB) – Minor league success and development pipeline.
Toronto Blue Jays games consistently attract high viewership and large stadium crowds. There’s also a growing pipeline of Canadian talent entering the NCAA and MLB drafts.
Major Baseball Events in Canada
- MLB Regular Season and Playoffs (Blue Jays)
- World Baseball Classic (Team Canada)
- Little League Baseball Canada Regionals
The Blue Jays’ playoff runs often dominate sports headlines across Canada, reigniting passion for the sport.
If you enjoy learning what Canadians are most passionate about, you’ll also love our feature on the Top 50 Most Valuable Canadian Brands in 2025. Read it here.
6. Cricket
Rapid Growth Among Immigrant Communities
Once a niche sport, cricket is now one of the fastest-growing sports in Canada due to its popularity among South Asian, Caribbean, and British immigrant populations. Cities like Toronto, Brampton, Surrey, and Mississauga have dozens of active leagues.
Key Highlights
| Popularity Rank | 6 |
| Estimated Participants | 0.3M+ |
| Viewership (National) | 2.5M+ |
| Notable Event | Global T20 Canada |
| Highlights |
Notable Canadian Teams
- Canada National Cricket Team
- Toronto Nationals, Vancouver Knights (Global T20 Canada)
- Ontario Cricket Academy
Canada’s national team is also making a mark in international competitions, improving its ICC ranking.
Major Cricket Events in Canada
- Global T20 Canada – Semi-professional league attracting international stars.
- ICC World Cup Qualifiers
- Local and regional summer leagues
The Global T20 Canada tournament draws international attention and features several global cricket stars.
7. Tennis
The Rise of Canadian Tennis
Tennis has been booming since Canadian players like Bianca Andreescu, Denis Shapovalov, and Felix Auger-Aliassime broke through on the global stage. Facilities are increasing across Canada, and Tennis Canada reports a 22% increase in junior program enrollment since 2020.
Key Highlights
| Popularity Rank | 7 |
| Estimated Participants | 0.4M+ |
| Viewership (National) | 3M+ |
| Notable Event | National Bank Open, US Open, Billie Jean King Cup |
| Highlights | Rising stars, national development, global tournaments |
Notable Canadian Players
- Team Canada – 2023 Billie Jean King Cup Champion
- Leylah Fernandez – 2021 US Open Finalist.
- Bianca Andreescu – 2019 US Open Champion.
- Felix Auger-Aliassime
- Denis Shapovalov
Canadian players are now mainstays in Grand Slam tournaments, making Canada one of the top tennis nations.
Major Tennis Events in Canada
- National Bank Open (Rogers Cup)
- Davis Cup and Billie Jean King Cup
- Canadian Open Junior Series
The National Bank Open held in Toronto and Montreal is Canada’s premier tennis event and draws global stars every summer.
8. Golf
A Sport of All Ages
Golf continues to hold steady popularity, especially among adults over 30. It’s a recreational favourite for Canadians during spring, summer, and fall. Golf Canada notes that over 5.7 million Canadians played at least one round in 2024.
Key Highlights
| Popularity Rank | 8 |
| Estimated Participants | 5.7M+ |
| Viewership (National) | 2M+ |
| Notable Event | RBC Canadian Open |
| Highlights | Accessible sport, famous courses, Canadian PGA success |
Notable Canadian Golfers
- Brooke Henderson – One of Canada’s most decorated female athletes.
- Corey Conners
- Mackenzie Hughes
Brooke Henderson remains Canada’s most successful golfer, inspiring more female participation and media attention.
Major Golf Events in Canada
- RBC Canadian Open
- LPGA CP Women’s Open
- PGA Tour Canadian events and qualifiers
The RBC Canadian Open attracts global talent and offers a spotlight for local pros to compete on home soil.
9. Curling
Winter Favourite Across Provinces
Curling remains a cherished Canadian pastime, especially in Prairie provinces and rural towns. The sport enjoys high national viewership during tournaments, and curling clubs are thriving coast to coast.
Key Highlights
| Popularity Rank | 9 |
| Estimated Participants | 0.3M+ |
| Viewership (National) | 4M+ |
| Notable Event | The Brier, Scotties |
| Highlights | Community involvement, national competitions, inclusive |
Notable Canadian Curling Teams
- Team Gushue (Newfoundland)
- Team Einarson (Manitoba)
- Team Canada (Olympic and World representation)
Canada is considered a global powerhouse in curling, winning multiple Olympic and World Championship titles.
Major Curling Events in Canada
- The Brier (Men)
- Scotties Tournament of Hearts (Women)
- World Curling Championships
The Brier and Scotties are beloved national events, watched by millions and celebrated in local communities.
10. Pickleball / Esports (Tie)
Pickleball: The Fastest-Growing Recreational Sport
Pickleball is booming across Canada, particularly among retirees and suburban families. With over 1 million recreational players in 2026, it’s the fastest-growing sport in Canadian community centres.
Key Highlights
| Popularity Rank | 10 |
| Estimated Participants | 1M+ / 1.5M+ |
| Viewership (National) | 1M+ / 3M+ |
| Notable Event | Nationals / DreamHack Canada |
Esports: The Digital Sport of the Future
Esports now commands massive attention among teens and young adults. Tournaments in League of Legends, Fortnite, and Valorant draw Canadian competitors and global spectators.
Notable Teams/Events
- Team Canada Esports
- The Nationals (Pickleball Canada)
- Red Bull Gaming Events in Toronto & Vancouver
Major Events for Pickleball & Esports
- Pickleball Canada Nationals
- DreamHack Canada
- Valorant Champions Tour (VCT) North America
Both sports are reshaping the future of competition in Canada, in their own distinct ways.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Canadian Sport
Balancing Tradition and Innovation
While hockey continues to anchor national identity, Canada’s sporting future is diversifying into accessible, inclusive, and community-driven activities. Soccer, basketball, and emerging sports like pickleball and cricket are reshaping participation across age and cultural groups.
Efforts to preserve hockey traditions—such as backyard rinks and intergenerational coaching—are ongoing amid shifting economic realities and climate change impacts.
Strategic Investment and Policy Responses
Governments and national sport agencies are investing more in community-based facilities, affordability programs for youth, and expanding infrastructure beyond ice rinks—such as new soccer fields, basketball courts, indoor pools, and multipurpose arenas.
Impact of Canada’s International Exposure
International success—whether it’s the women’s soccer team, elite swimmers like Summer McIntosh, rising lacrosse and baseball competitiveness, or national NBA champions—is fueling interest and inspiring youth to engage in sport.
Community and Cultural Narrative
At its core, sport in Canada reflects more than competition—it signals national pride, intergenerational tradition, social inclusion, and community cohesion. Whether through curling bonspiels in small towns, soccer leagues in cultural neighbourhoods, or hockey rivalries that span generations, sport binds Canadians together.
FAQs About Canada’s Most Popular Sports
Curious about what sports Canadians are playing, watching, and rallying behind in 2026? This FAQ section tackles the most common questions Canadians are asking about sports trends today. Whether you’re a fan, parent, or newcomer, here’s what you need to know:
Conclusion
In 2026, Canada’s sports landscape reflects the country’s diversity, evolving media habits, and a deep connection to physical activity and fandom. Whether it’s cheering on Connor McDavid on the ice or tuning in to Felix Auger-Aliassime at Wimbledon, Canadians continue to lead with passion—on the field, court, rink, or screen.
As new sports rise and traditional ones stay strong, one thing is clear: Canada’s love for sport is as strong as ever.
