The Regina and District Chamber of Commerce says Wednesday’s announcement was the best possible scenario for Regina and area businesses in relation to the Grey Cup festivities.
While it’s disappointing the big game isn’t guaranteed to be played in the queen city in November, CEO John Hopkins says the good news is Regina will get to host the game in 2022 instead.
However, Hopkins said this will bring an economic loss of an estimated 100 million dollars.
“It certainly is a blow to the community, but again, it’s only a deferral,” Hopkins said. “We’ll have it in 2022, which is positive, but to have this on top of COVID-19 (is difficult).
“Having said all that, the reality is that this is the right decision to make.”
Hopkins said this news does add to the impact COVID-19 has had on Regina businesses.
“Those that are going to be impacted the most are some that have been impacted the most by COVID-19, being some of the hospitality sector, the hotels,” Hopkins said. “It adds to the challenge that’s out there right now.”
Hopkins said this also gives businesses two more years to plan for the 110th Grey Cup.
“(I) appreciate that the CFL did actually defer it as opposed to cancelling it, and having to reapply to be awarded the cup, so we’re very appreciative of that,” Hopkins said. “We look forward to 2022 with some optimism, and who knows; maybe something will happen this year as well.”
Regina has been rumoured to be a host for CFL hub model games, but Hopkins says a lot would need to be determined before the Chamber would back a bid for the games.
