Mayor Ken Sim and the Vancouver Whitecaps FC are set to reveal important news during a joint announcement on Thursday morning.
The city has disclosed plans for a media event where Sim and Whitecaps CEO Axel Schuster are slated to address the audience.
The future of the Whitecaps has been uncertain ever since the team was put up for sale back in December 2024.
This uncertainty cast a shadow over the media coverage of the team’s impressive journey to the MLS championship final, where Vancouver faced a 3-1 defeat against Inter Miami.
As the club’s lease at BC Place is nearing its end with no progress on an extension, MLS Commissioner Don Garber is actively seeking a new home for the Whitecaps.
Expressing concerns about the team’s future, Schuster has acknowledged that fans have valid reasons to be worried.
Mayor Sim, who is a devoted Whitecaps supporter, attended the final match in Fort Lauderdale over the weekend.
In a statement made in April, Mayor Sim reaffirmed the city’s support for the Whitecaps, expressing a desire to keep the team in Vancouver while hinting at ongoing discussions behind the scenes.
Reports from Sportsnet 650 suggest that the city may unveil an exclusive negotiation period to explore the possibility of a new stadium and entertainment district at Hastings Park. The closure of the racecourse and casino at Hastings Park due to economic challenges has paved the way for this potential development.
While there is anticipation for progress on a new stadium, Sportsnet host Jason Brough advises Vancouverites to remain cautiously optimistic, emphasizing the need to address crucial questions regarding funding for the project.
The media event on Thursday is scheduled to commence at 11:30 a.m.