TORONTO –
Two sponsors who previously withdrew their support of Hockey Canada when it was embroiled in scandal last year say they are backing the organization again.
The fast food chain Tim Hortons and the telecommunications company Telus Corp. say they have resumed their support of Hockey Canada, which they withdrew when the organization was accused of mishandling sexual assault complaints.
Tims spokesman Michael Oliveira said the chain has made it clear it will not resume funding Canada’s men’s teams until they regain the trust of Canadians.
He says Tims has resumed his support because it appears that Hockey Canada has made significant progress toward that goal under new leadership.
Telus spokeswoman Saara Rahikka says the telecommunications giant decided to support the organization again because it wanted to support changes that make the sport safe and inclusive for everyone on and off the ice.
The renewed support from Tims and Telus comes ahead of the Men’s Junior Ice Hockey World Championship, which begins later this month in Gothenburg, Sweden.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 14, 2023.
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