Hamilton East-Stoney Creek MPP Neil Lumsden has revealed his intention to step down, effective Aug. 4.
In a post on X, Lumsden stated, “Today, I informed Premier Ford of my decision to retire from my seat as MPP for Hamilton East-Stoney Creek and as Minister of Sport, effective August 4, 2026.”
He expressed gratitude to the residents of Hamilton East-Stoney Creek by saying, “thank you for the trust you placed in me. Representing you has been the honour of a lifetime, and I retire with tremendous optimism for the future of our community and our province under the leadership of Premier Ford.”
This morning, Ontario Premier Doug Ford commented that Lumsden “has been a dedicated public servant with a storied career during his time in the CFL, as a minister and as the MPP for Hamilton East-Stoney Creek. In particular, I want to thank Neil for his work supporting Toronto’s successful hosting of the FIFA World Cup. Ontario is lucky to have benefited from his leadership. I wish Neil and his family all the very best in his retirement.”
Lumsden has served as Ontario’s minister of sport since being elected in 2022. He is also a Canadian Football Hall of Famer who was the general manager of the Hamilton Tiger-Cats when they clinched victory at the 1999 Grey Cup. Additionally, he played for the Edmonton Elks during their three-time championship run.
His past roles include being general manager and chief operating officer for the 2003 Road World Cycling Championships held in Hamilton, running a sports marketing agency, and serving as Brock University’s athletics director.
Lumsden’s announcement follows Premier Ford’s news about Stan Cho resigning from cabinet after facing backlash over hotel expenses while living in Toronto.
In a social media statement, Cho announced he was stepping down immediately and taking “full responsibility” for his “mistake.” He confirmed that he would continue representing Willowdale as its MPP.
Lumsden secured re-election in 2025 with 42.1 percent of votes cast.
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