AJLCF made the announcement via email and on social networks.

The ratification vote came after the two sides agreed to a seven-year interim agreement.

Ratification came two days after commissioner Randy Ambrosie filed the final bid.

Following Thursday night’s outcome, he reacted via a press release.

We are pleased to learn that the players have ratified the new collective agreement, the commissioner said. The [bureau] of Governors will continue to vote on its ratification shortly. We look forward to a successful season and a long and productive partnership with our players.

The preparation calendar will begin on Friday, as planned.

The Montreal Alouettes will play their first exhibition game on Saturday in Hamilton.

The AJLCF did not offer details about the outcome of the vote. Players from at least six of the nine clubs will have to vote for the agreement to be ratified by a simple majority.