The **Hamilton Tiger-Cats** are a professional Canadian football team based in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. As a member of the East Division in the Canadian Football League (CFL), they have a rich history dating back to the merger of the Hamilton Tigers and Hamilton Wildcats in 1950. The Tigers, established in 1869, were one of the first professional football teams in North America, contributing to a legacy that includes 15 Grey Cup championships when counting all Hamilton-based teams[1][2][3].
**History and Achievements:**
- The Tiger-Cats have won eight Grey Cups since their formation, with their most recent victory in 1999[1][2].
- They are historically known for their robust defense and the "Steeltown toughness" reflecting their city's industrial heritage[3].
**Current Status:**
- The team plays their home games at Tim Hortons Field, which was opened in 2014, replacing the historic Ivor Wynne Stadium[3][4].
- In 2022, the ownership was reorganized under the Hamilton Sports Group, which includes businessman Bob Young as the chairman and largest shareholder, alongside other investors such as Stelco (now part of Cleveland-Cliffs) and local sports figures[4].
- The Tiger-Cats recently clinched the East Division title for the 2025 season, securing a spot in the Eastern Final[6].
**Notable Aspects:**
- The team is deeply involved in community events and offers a range of products and services, including game tickets and merchandise[5].
- Their brand is synonymous with the city of Hamilton, reflecting its industrial and cultural identity[3].
- The Tiger-Cats are part of a broader sports ecosystem in Hamilton, which includes other teams like Forge FC, also owned by the Hamilton Sports Group[4].