BREAKING: The Toronto Maple leafs have officially announced that their new 60,000-seat Scotiabank Arena (SBA), formerly known as Air Canada Centre (ACC),Stadium is on schedule to open ahead of the 2027 (NHL )season….See more……
TORONTO, June 21, 2025 — In a milestone move for hockey and sports infrastructure in Canada, the Toronto Maple Leafs and Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE) have officially announced that the massively expanded 60,000‑seat Scotiabank Arena (formerly Air Canada Centre) is on track to open just in time for the start of the 2027–28 NHL season.
“This transformation reaffirms our ongoing commitment to enhance Toronto’s stature on the global sports stage,” said MLSE CEO Keith Pelley. “Everything remains on schedule, with foundational work complete and vertical construction now underway.”
📌 The Project at a Glance
Capacity Boost: The current arena, which seats approximately 18,800 for hockey, will see a capacity jump to 60,000, reflecting ambition to host not only NHL contests but major global events such as CS5 games, the Stanley Cup finals, international hockey championships, concerts, and e-sports tournaments.
Timeline: Ground-level preparatory work began in early 2025 following the conclusion of Phase 2 in spring. Vertical construction has started, with MLSE confirming the arena will be fully operational before the puck drops on the 2027–28 NHL campaign.
Funding & Investment: The transformation forms part of a broader $350-million “reimagination” of Scotiabank Arena, including concourse upgrades, Amazon’s “Just Walk Out” technology, premium lounge enhancements, and expanded retail and dining areas . The new expansion will tap into MLSE’s capital reserves, private financing, and potentially leverage federal/provincial infrastructure support
🛠️ What Fans Can Expect
1. Massive Seating Expansion
Going from ~18,800 to 60,000 seats will revolutionize game-day dynamics. In addition to standard seating, expect new premium decks, standing-room sections, family zones, student bleachers, and corporate hospitality packages. This mirrors global trends where major arenas accommodate 50–70K for events
2. World-Class Facilities
The existing reimagination efforts focused on cutting-edge fan-facing concourses, expanded team stores, high-tech LED displays, and frictionless retail and concessions . The expansion will build upon that foundation with a larger, more open bowl, modernized suites, accessible seating zones, and elite hospitality suites
3. Enhanced Fan Experience
Ingress will be revolutionized with broader concourses and secure, frictionless entry; advanced wayfinding with digital signage; and seamless checkout via Amazon’s “Just Walk Out” system—already introduced on two levels . Premium spaces like the Tunnel Club, Hot Stove Lounge, and Mastercard Lounge will also undergo enhancement
4. Multi-Purpose Capability
The arena is being positioned to host blockbuster events—global concerts, UFC, prestigious hockey tournaments, e-sports, and international basketball.
✅ Progress: On Schedule, On Budget
Phase Highlights:
Phase 1 (2023): Revamped 200‑level suites and launch of the Mastercard Lounge .
Phase 2 (2024–25): Reimagination of 100‑level concourse with new concession models, digital enhancements, and the MNP Pass Social Club .
Current (2025–27): Vertical expansion and capacity increase, while keeping the arena operational for Leafs, Raptors, and events through the mid‑2020s.
Nick Eaves, MLSE’s COO, celebrated the seamless integration of technology and design. “From fan comfort to digital innovation, we’re reimagining every inch—from street‑level pathways to the upgraded bowl above,” he said
🤝 Economic Impact & Civic VisionThis massive project offers a boost beyond MLSE:
Job creation: Construction estimates suggest 5,000‑plus direct and indirect jobs over two years.
Tourism: A larger arena increases the city’s ability to host marquee global events, drawing visitors, media, and spending.
Urban vibrancy: Positioned in the Path-connected, downtown core, it reaffirms Toronto’s reputation as a world-class entertainment and sports hub.
MLSE has suggested potential partnerships for public transit enhancements and broader infrastructure upgrades aligned with the project’s scale—though formal agreements are still in discussion.
Ticket prices: With capacity and amenities dramatically increasing, pricing will be pivotal. MLSE has hinted at multi-tiered packages including new affordable or group options but no formal price rollout has occurred.
Season ticket demand: The Leafs currently boast a waiting list reportedly over 10,000 holders . Expanded seating may finally ease access, but demand is expected to stay high.
Competitive edge: Among the NHL’s largest venues, Toronto will rival global peers such as Las Vegas and Chicago in capacity. However, larger capacity must still preserve intangibles like atmosphere and fan engagement—long noted as challenges at Scotiabank Arena .
Home Opener: Maple Leafs will begin the season at a familiar-looking Scotiabank Arena, but by mid-season will transition into the expanded venue.
Fan Experience: Expect an evolving gameday—new seating areas, enhanced social spaces, refreshed concessions. An integration team will ensure smooth changes across the season.
Operations: The Leafs and Raptors will split games between general seating and premium spaces as areas open incrementally. MLSE promises clear communications to patrons.
The Maple Leafs’ announcement cements a bold vision: transforming Scotiabank Arena into a flagship, 60,000-seat global entertainment venue by fall 2027. It’s a statement of confidence in Toronto as a major-league city capable of hosting world-class sports and entertainment. With modern technology, expanded capacity, and fan-first amenities, the arena will set a new benchmark.
Yet, its success hinges on managing affordability, preserving game-day atmosphere, and delivering flawless operational rollout. As the cornerstone of Toronto’s civic identity—and home to one of hockey’s most storied franchises—the expanded Scotiabank Arena has the potential to redefine the Maple Leafs’ future and the city’s skyline.
