In a groundbreaking move that’s sending shockwaves through the sports and gaming industries alike, the Vancouver Canucks have announced a historic, multi-year partnership with PlayStation, set to officially launch for the 2026 NHL season. This unprecedented alliance marks the first time in NHL history that a major professional hockey franchise has teamed up with a global gaming brand at such a transformative scale.
Under the terms of the partnership, the Canucks will integrate PlayStation branding and interactive technologies throughout Rogers Arena, including immersive fan experiences powered by PlayStation 6, AR-enhanced game analytics, and co-branded content across both digital and physical platforms. PlayStation will also become the team’s official jersey sponsor — another first in franchise history — with an exclusive alternate jersey featuring a bold, tech-inspired redesign set to debut in early 2026.
“This is more than a sponsorship — it’s a cultural fusion,” said Jim Rutherford, President of Hockey Operations for the Canucks. “Together with PlayStation, we’re creating a new era of engagement that redefines how fans interact with the sport, both inside the arena and across the world.”
The move is being hailed as a “monumental evolution” for the NHL, signaling a broader trend of cross-industry collaborations that blend esports, entertainment, and traditional sports. Insiders suggest the partnership could pave the way for exclusive Canucks content in future NHL video game titles, limited-edition PlayStation consoles, and even an NHL esports league tied directly to the franchise.
“This is the best news we could hope for — the perfect convergence of fandom, innovation, and sport,” said Hideaki Nishino, Senior VP at Sony Interactive Entertainment. “Our mission has always been to push boundaries, and this partnership with the Canucks does exactly that.”
