The Ottawa Senators' announcement of pre-season games in Quebec City sparked controversy, with fans expressing concerns about potential relocation. Owner Michael Andlauer's openness to regular-season games in Quebec City and the team mascot's appearance in a jersey blending the Senators and defunct Quebec Nordiques logos fueled the backlash. Senators officials have since clarified their intentions, emphasizing the importance of strengthening ties with the francophone community and assuring fans that the team remains committed to Ottawa.
The team currently sits third in the Atlantic Division, delivering some of the most exciting hockey this market has seen in years — all while missing their starting goaltender, Linus Ullmark. But the feel-good momentum took a hit Monday when owner Michael Andlauer ignited a public relations firestorm in Quebec City.
“Plan B in case LeBreton Flats fail. The Sens has already had an owner open to move the team. Why wouldn't they have another one? The end is near," another fan posted. Since acquiring the team in 2023, Andlauer has aimed to build ties with the francophone community in Gatineau, just outside Ottawa. What many didn’t understand was the push to attract French-speaking fans four hours away.
The Senators eventually removed the post of Spartacat in the split jersey, and Leeder later shared a message from his personal X account. “I mean, we all went there yesterday excited to announce pre-season games and then the poor guy is getting hit head-on for having half of his jersey as the Nordiques.”
OTTAWA SENATORS QUEBEC CITY RELOCATION MICHAEL ANDLAUER CYRIL LEEDER THOMAS CHABOT FAN BACKLASH
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