The Winnipeg Blue Bombers history reflects a proud tradition built by the Winnipeg Blue Bombers football club, known for passion, skill, and unforgettable achievements. From classic Winnipeg Blue Bombers game victories to multiple Grey Cup titles, the team’s story captures the spirit of Canadian football and the pride of Winnipeg fans across generations.
Established
1930
City
Winnipeg
League History
1958 – Present / Canadian Football League
Team History
1930 - Present / Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Nickname
Blue Bombers - The Winnipeg Blue Bombers have been a part of the Canadian Football League since 1930 and are one of the oldest teams in professional football. Their name has become synonymous with success, having won 10 Grey Cups - more than any other team in CFL history. But where did their nickname come from?
Winnipeg Blue Bombers Origin
The story behind how they got their name is an interesting one that dates back to 1935 when two local newspapers were running a contest for fans to choose a new moniker for the team. The winning entry was “Blue Bombers,” which Jack Haney submitted because he thought it sounded powerful and represented strength and courage - qualities he wanted his favorite team to embody on the field.
Since then, not only has "Blue Bombers" become firmly entrenched as Winnipeg's official football team nickname but also an important symbol of pride throughout Manitoba province. It also pays homage to Canada's proud military aviation heritage since World War I when Royal Canadian Air Force pilots flew biplanes called Avro 504Ks, nicknamed "blue bombers."
In addition to its historical roots, today, “Blue Bombers” carries even greater significance due in large part owing its strong connection with fans all over Canada who proudly wear blue jerseys or hats adorned with this iconic logo every time they cheer on their beloved hometown heroes at Investors Group Field or follow them on television during away games against rival teams like Saskatchewan Roughriders or Hamilton Tiger-Cats.
No matter what happens during each season, though, there is no denying that when you hear someone say, “Go Blue Bomber!” They are expressing support for not just a sports franchise but rather something much bigger –a deep sense of community spirit shared by passionate supporters across our great nation. Explore more about Winnipeg Blue Bombers history below!
Championship
Grey Cup 12
2021, 2019, 1990. 1988, 1984, 1962, 1961, 1959, 1958, 1941, 1939, 1935
Stadium
2013 - Present / Investors Group Field
1953 - 2012 / Canad Inns Stadium
1935 - 1952 / Osborne Stadium
Owner
1930 - Present / Community - Widely Held
- 1930
- 1935 to 1941
- 1958 to 1962
- 1984 to 1990
- 2021
-
Blue Bombers Team Formation
The Blue Bombers were founded in 1930 as the Winnipeg Football Club, which has always been the organization’s legal name. Unlike most other professional teams in the four most popular North American team sports (but much more common in soccer, especially in Europe) the official legal name Winnipeg Football Club continues to see significant everyday use alongside its nickname, particularly in local media and ... -
Grey Cup Champs 1935 – 1941
Grey Cup 1935 The 23rd Grey Cup was played on December 7, 1935, at Hamilton Amateur Athletic Association Grounds, with 6,405 fans in attendance. It marked the first time that a team from west of Ontario won the cup. The Winnipeg ‘Pegs defeated the Hamilton Tigers 18 to 12. Grey Cup 1939 The 27th Grey Cup was played on December 9, 1939, before 11,738 fans at Lansdowne Park at Ottawa. The Winnipeg Blue Bombers defeated the Ottawa ... -
Grey Cup Champs 1958 to 1962
Grey Cup 1958 The 46th Grey Cup was the championship game of the 1958 season of the Canadian Football League on November 29, 1958. The game was played in Vancouver’s Empire Stadium before a crowd of 36,567. The Winnipeg Blue Bombers defeated the Hamilton Tiger-Cats 35-28. This was the first Grey Cup game to be played under the aegis of the newly formed (and present-day) Canadian Football League. Grey Cup 1959 The 47th Grey ... -
Grey Cup Champs 1984 to 1990
Grey Cup 1984 The 72nd Grey Cup was the 1984 Canadian Football League championship game, played at Commonwealth Stadium in Edmonton between the Winnipeg Blue Bombers and the Hamilton Tiger-Cats. The Blue Bombers dominated the Tiger-Cats in a 47-17 victory. Grey Cup 1988 The 76th Grey Cup was the 1988 Canadian Football League championship game that was played at Lansdowne Park in Ottawa, between the BC Lions and the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. ... -
BOMBERS WIN BACK-TO-BACK (CFL) GREY CUP
The Winnipeg Blue Bombers won the 108th Grey Cup in a dramatic 33-25 overtime victory against the hometown Hamilton Tiger-Cats on December 12, 2021. The win secured Winnipeg’s second consecutive championship, making them the first team in 11 years to repeat. Down 22-10 in the fourth quarter, the Bombers mounted a furious comeback propelled by MVP quarterback Zach Collaros. The ...
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
Winnipeg Blue Bombers History
The Winnipeg Blue Bombers are among the most historic and successful teams in the Canadian Football League (CFL). Founded in 1930, the Winnipeg Blue Bombers football club quickly became a cornerstone of Canadian football, representing Manitoba with pride and passion. Over the decades, they have captured multiple Grey Cup titles, thrilling fans with each legendary Winnipeg Blue Bombers game.
The Winnipeg Blue Bombers history is filled with unforgettable players who helped shape the team’s legacy. Hall of Famers like Milt Stegall, Ken Ploen, Joe Poplawski, and Chris Walby are among the greatest names to ever wear the Blue and Gold. Their dedication and excellence set the tone for generations of future players and helped build a strong foundation for the Winnipeg Blue Bombers football club.
Throughout the decades, the team has faced its share of challenges but always found a way to rise again. Whether during rebuilding phases or championship seasons, the Winnipeg Blue Bombers have maintained a commitment to excellence, teamwork, and community. Every Winnipeg Blue Bombers game continues to unite fans across Manitoba and beyond, filling Mosaic Stadium with energy and pride.
Recent years have marked another golden era in the Winnipeg Blue Bombers history. The team captured back-to-back Grey Cups in 2019 and 2021, showcasing the strength of their roster and leadership under head coach Mike O’Shea. The success reignited a powerful sense of pride among fans, proving that the Winnipeg Blue Bombers football club remains one of the CFL’s elite organizations.
Bombers Achievements
Grey Cup Championships
The Winnipeg Blue Bombers have won an impressive 12 Grey Cup titles, the most recent coming in 2021. Their victories span generations, from early triumphs in the 1930s to modern championships that highlight their resilience and tradition. Each Winnipeg Blue Bombers game leading to these wins reflects the team’s enduring excellence and contribution to the CFL’s rich legacy.
The Winnipeg Blue Bombers history continues to grow, driven by passionate supporters, legendary players, and a shared commitment to success. As one of the league’s most respected franchises, the Winnipeg Blue Bombers football club stands as a proud symbol of determination, unity, and championship spirit across Canada.
Sports Fan Products
Retired Number
*Blue is this team’s history