Another negative example of the merger not being completely permissable for Canadian subscribers. Since both Canadian companies are not permitted to operate as one, and neither sets of customers can benefit from the respective “Best Of” packages, Sirius customers are left out of NHL and Major League Baseball Games, while XM customers are left without NASCAR, NFL and CFL coverage. Those are just some examples.

Many XM subscribers in Canada subscribed to their respective units just for the extensive NHL coverage. Sirius has Hockey Night in Canada Radio and some informative shows about hockey, but no broadcasts of games. Eventually and hopefully, the CRTC will allow both companies to conduct business as one entity like the US company and all channels will be available for each user. That would be true radio freedom! Having one unit where not only all the music could be dialed in, but all the sports a fan could want!

Sirius subscribers have been fortunate enough to also enjoy extensive CFL coverage. This should continue for some time. I am pleased to be able to catch some broadcasts while driving. Since Western Canada, particularly Saskatchewan and Alberta, contain large concentrations of the CFL’s fan base, many subscribers who are not able to make it to the team games have the option of select Sirius coverage.

At the end of the day, most sport fans prefer to turn to their tv sets or head down to the local pub to see the game on the big screens. There are many who enjoy the coverage on radio since it adds a flavour of nostalgia to a broadcast. Either way it is great to hear some great sports on our dials!