The Vancouver Whitecaps had a remarkable year on the soccer field, showcasing their resilience and skill despite uncertainties about the club’s future in the local market.
The team made a strategic move by hiring Jesper Sorenson at the start of the year, propelling them to the top of the Western Conference standings in Major League Soccer. Despite facing challenges like injuries to key players, the Whitecaps triumphed by clinching another Canadian Championship, reaching the CONCACAF Champions Cup Final, and narrowly missing out on their first MLS Cup title to Lionel Messi and Inter Miami in December.
Adding to their success, MLS Executive of the Year Axel Schuster brought in international superstar Thomas Müller in August. Müller’s seamless integration into the team not only boosted their performance but also made him a beloved figure in Vancouver, contributing to the Whitecaps’ journey towards an MLS Cup victory.
One of the most unforgettable moments was the Western Semi-Final win against LAFC at BC Place, achieved in a dramatic penalty shootout despite the Whitecaps being down to just nine players. This thrilling victory will be etched in the memories of Southsiders, Whitecaps fans, and sports enthusiasts across Vancouver.
Looking ahead to 2026, all eyes are on the Whitecaps and the City of Vancouver as they announced a partnership to explore the possibility of constructing a new stadium at the historic Hastings Park site. This ambitious project aims to secure the club’s presence in British Columbia for generations to come.