TSN considers starting own radio network to challenge The FAN

Cable sports channel TSN is seriously considering starting its own sports radio network to challenge the FAN 590 in Toronto and the rest of the country, The Globe and Mail reports. The challenge would ratchet up the corporate rivalry between Rogers Communications Inc. and CTV Inc. for the sports audience in Canada. The FAN is owned by Rogers, and TSN by CTV Inc. The framework is in place for a national network. TSN’s sister company, CHUM, has the 1050 radio band in Toronto, which relays the CP24 signal. As well, CHUM has sports-radio outlets already in Winnipeg, Ottawa, Montreal and two in Vancouver. In those markets, the changeover could be as simple as a new name. Industry sources say that any TSN radio operation could begin shortly after Bell Canada’s acquisition of CTV Inc. is finalized this spring. The acquisition is subject to regulatory approval.