On Wednesday, the BC Lions announced Amar S. Doman, a Canadian businessman who founded The Futura Corporation, as the new owner.
A resident of the Lower Mainland, Doman is the Chairman of the Board of Directors and CEO of Doman Building Materials (DBM-TSX), and a controlling shareholder and Chairman of the Board of Tree Island Steel (TSL-TSX).
The Lions were looking for a new owner after longtime owner David Braley passed away in 2020.
During the introduction press conference, Doman said, “I’m thrilled and excited by the opportunity before us, to build a winning team on the field, to be a positive force for a better British Columbia off the field, and to provide a great experience for our fans and our partners every step of the journey. The Lions are part of the fabric of this great province. I’m honored to take on this role because of our team’s history. But I’m motivated, most of all, by the future I see ahead for this franchise. I am extremely excited to get started.”
The Lions were founded in 1954 and named after the twin mountain peaks known as the Lions. Legend has it that the mountains look like two lions guarding the city. These mountains can be seen in northern Vancouver.
The Lions have won six Grey Cup Championships, their last being in 2011 in their home stadium BC Place over the Winnipeg Blue Bombers 34-23. The winningest head coach in Lions history is Wally Buono, with 129 wins. He coached the Lions to three Grey Cup victories.
CFL Commissioner Randy Ambrosie welcomed Doman to the CFL family. “This is a great day for British Columbia, for the Lions, and for the Canadian Football League. On behalf of our Board of Governors and our fans across the country, I want to welcome Amar and his family to the CFL family. I have every confidence he will be a strong owner who will make this franchise, and our league, stronger.”
The BC Lions will host the Edmonton Elks on Thursday Night Football today at 10 pm on ESPN2.
