Mario Cecchini returns as CFL takes interim ownership of Montreal Alouettes

Photo courtesy: Montreal Alouettes

Mario Cecchini is back in charge of the Montreal Alouettes as he was appointed the interim president of the club on Tuesday morning by the CFL, which has taken ownership of the team on an interim basis.

Cecchini, who served as the team’s president this past year, will lead the management of the organization’s day-to-day business operations under the direction and supervision of the league office. The longtime Quebec media executive was hired as the team’s president in January 2020 after the team was purchased by S and S Sportsco, a corporate entity owned by steel magnate Sid Spiegel and son-in-law Gary Stern.

“I hope the alouettes win the grey cup this year,” tweeted Stern late on Monday. “Danny doing a great job. You deserve to have a great team.”

Spiegel passed away in July 2021 and his 75 ownership stake moved into the control of his estate, while the remaining 25 percent remained with Stern. Cecchini’s contract wasn’t renewed for 2023 despite ticket sales and corporate sponsorships improving during his tenure as president.

The league made it clear that general manager Danny Maciocia will continue to build the team’s roster for the upcoming season. ​They also indicated that they have initiated an accelerated and formal sales process, which is being led by an investment banking partner whose clients include major league sports properties around the world.

​Multiple parties have reportedly expressed interest in purchasing the Alouettes.