Achi news desk-
Bell Canada, the parent company of CTV News, is no longer a sponsor of the Calgary Stampede.
The telecommunications company confirms the long standing partnership between the two which ended at the end of last year.
“We wish the Calgary Stampede the best as they continue to celebrate the heritage of the West,” said Tianna Goguen, Bell media relations, in a statement sent to CTV News via email.
“We are grateful to have been part of such a famous pillar in the world of Canadian entertainment.”
The Calgary Stampede confirms that Bell’s contract has formally expired on December 31, 2023.
“We are very proud of the work we have done in partnership with Bell and thank them for their nearly two decades of support,” said Shannon Greer, manager of communications and media relations for the Calgary Stampede, in an e -mail to CTV News.
“While the sponsorship has ended, we maintain a business relationship with Bell.”
The Bell logo was removed from the Calgary Stampede’s website as part of the announcement of this year’s Grandstand Show, which Bell previously supported.
“We are excited to welcome GMC, Wrangler, Rocky Mountain Equipment, and Lammle’s as sponsors of The Grandstand Show and look forward to showcasing their special ties to it when the show premieres in July,” said Greer .
Bell did not respond to questions about why the sponsorship deal was not renewed.
Bell’s parent company, BCE Inc., announced a major restructuring in February with 4,800 layoffs and other cost-cutting measures.
The Stampede has come under increased scrutiny recently after admitting liability in a class action lawsuit involving a former employee convicted of sexually assaulting boys performing as part of the Young Canadians dance group.
