REGINA — The forest fires in northern Saskatchewan have been at the top of the news in recent days, and now they could be on the verge of affecting the Canadian Football League preseason game in Regina on Friday night.
The Roughriders released a statement earlier Friday saying that ‘the air quality at Mosaic Stadium is being actively monitored by the CFL and will be throughout game day. At this point we do not expect any delays to kickoff but will provide updates as required.”
According to Environment Canada, Regina is currently under a special air quality statement, with current conditions sitting at the 10-plus or Very High Risk range as of 3 p.m. on Friday.
Under league regulations, if the Air Quality Health Index reaches eight or above using Environment Canada metrics during warmups or the game, the air quality procedure will take effect and the game will be automatically stopped and teams sent to their dressing room.
The forecast maximums see the AQHI remaining at 10-plus through Friday night and all day Saturday.
The Roughriders announced at 4 p.m. that the opening of the Coors Light Party in the Park has been postponed to 5:30 p.m. and that air quality will be continue to be monitored.
The CFL is to meet with the Players Association at 5 p.m. to determine what steps might be taken and whether the game will take place.
Be sure to keep an eye on the Roughriders social media accounts for updates, and SportsCage.com will also have updates as soon as more is known,
Kickoff between the Roughriders and Winnipeg Blue Bombers is set for 7 p.m. at Mosaic Staduim.