The Toronto Maple Leafs are a professional ice hockey team based in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. They play in the National Hockey League (NHL) and are one of the league’s famous “Original Six” teams.
The team is owned by Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE). MLSE is a large sports and entertainment company headquartered in Toronto, operating multiple major sports franchises and venues.
Founded in 1917, the team has grown into one of the most valuable franchises in the NHL, with millions of fans worldwide. As of 2025, the club’s operations fall under the management structure of MLSE’s executive leadership team.
Ownership Status of Toronto Maple Leafs
There is no single private owner of the Toronto Maple Leafs. The team is owned by Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE), whose ownership is divided between major corporate shareholders.
As of 2025, Rogers Communications is the majority owner of MLSE, after acquiring Bell’s stake. The remaining shares are owned by Kilmer Sports Inc., controlled by businessman Larry Tanenbaum.
Major Shareholders of MLSE (Owner of the Leafs)
| Shareholder / Entity | Ownership Percentage | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rogers Communications | 75% | Became majority owner in July 2025 after acquiring Bell’s 37.5% stake. |
| Kilmer Sports Inc. (Larry Tanenbaum) | 25% (approx.) | Long-time MLSE chairman, retains minority stake. |
| Bell (BCE Inc.) – Former Owner | 0% (Exited) | Sold its 37.5% stake in 2025 to Rogers. |
Note: MLSE owns the Toronto Maple Leafs, so these shareholders indirectly own the team.
About Larry Tanenbaum
Larry Tanenbaum is a highly respected Canadian business executive and long-time sports leader best known for his influential role within Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE). As the chairman of Kilmer Sports Inc., Tanenbaum has been deeply involved in Toronto’s sports landscape for decades, helping shape the direction of major franchises like the Toronto Maple Leafs, Toronto Raptors, and Toronto FC.
He is widely admired for his commitment to building strong teams, improving sports facilities, and supporting community-focused initiatives. His leadership style emphasizes stability, long-term planning, and strategic investment, making him one of the most recognizable figures in Canadian sports ownership.
Larry Tanenbaum Net Worth
As of recent estimates, Larry Tanenbaum’s net worth is approximately $1.5 billion to $2 billion USD. His wealth primarily comes from his diversified business interests through Kilmer Group, which spans industries such as construction, real estate, manufacturing, and sports ownership.
His minority ownership stake in MLSE has also contributed significantly to his financial profile, especially as the value of Toronto’s major sports franchises has grown rapidly over the years. Despite his substantial wealth, Tanenbaum is also known for his philanthropy, supporting numerous health, education, and community initiatives across Canada.
Key Shareholder Highlights
- Rogers Communications (75%)
Rogers became the controlling owner after purchasing Bell’s 37.5% stake in 2025, making it the majority shareholder of MLSE. Rogers is known for its involvement in telecommunications, media rights, and sports broadcasting. - Kilmer Sports Inc. (Larry Tanenbaum)
Tanenbaum retains a meaningful minority stake and has been deeply involved in MLSE’s leadership. He has historically played an active role in sports governance and strategy. - Bell (Former Co-Owner)
Bell fully exited MLSE ownership in 2025 when Rogers bought its entire stake.
Recent Developments in Ownership
The biggest ownership change occurred in 2025:
- In July 2025, Rogers Communications officially acquired Bell’s 37.5% stake, increasing its total ownership to 75%, becoming the majority owner.
- This acquisition represents a major shift in Canadian sports, giving Rogers significant control over MLSE’s assets, including the Toronto Maple Leafs, Toronto Raptors, Toronto FC, and Scotiabank Arena.
FAQs
1. Who is the current owner of the Toronto Maple Leafs?
The Leafs are owned by Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE), whose majority owner is Rogers Communications (75%), with Kilmer Sports holding the rest.
2. Is the team privately owned or publicly traded?
The Leafs are not publicly traded. They are owned through MLSE, a privately held corporation.
3. Who founded the Toronto Maple Leafs?
The team was founded in 1917, originally known as the Toronto Arenas. Early key owners included Conn Smythe, one of the most important historical figures for the franchise.
4. Has the ownership changed recently?
Yes. In 2025, Bell sold its stake to Rogers, making Rogers the majority owner of MLSE and indirectly the Leafs.
Toronto Maple Leafs Official Site
Discover more from Who Is The Owner Of
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.