MLS owners discuss moving Whitecaps to Las Vegas as club pleads for local buyers

The Vancouver Whitecaps are facing renewed uncertainty about their future in the city.

Just days after the club set a new attendance record at BC Place in a 3-1 win over the Colorado Rapids, and with the #SaveTheCaps fan campaign gaining momentum, Major League Soccer owners have held internal discussions about relocating the team.

Las Vegas has emerged as the leading candidate.

In a statement released Monday, the Whitecaps confirmed they are “aware of today’s reporting.” The club acknowledged “well-documented structural challenges around stadium economics, venue access, and revenue limitations” that have made it difficult to attract committed buyers.

Ownership said it has held serious conversations with more than 100 parties over the past 16 months, but “to date, no viable offer has emerged that would keep the club here.”

The statement reiterated that the current ownership group’s “strong preference” is to find a solution in Vancouver and urged any local group with the “vision and resources to chart a path forward” to step forward. However, none have come forward at this time.

According to a report from Paul Tenorio and Tom Bogert of The Athletic, a special committee of MLS owners met earlier this month to evaluate the Whitecaps’ future, including the possibility of relocation. Las Vegas was the lead option discussed, and the league has spoken with a group interested in bringing the team to Nevada. Other markets, including Indianapolis, Sacramento, and Phoenix, have also expressed interest.

Despite the uncertainty, the Whitecaps remain popular with fans. Vancouver is also scheduled to host matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in less than 45 days at BC Place, the stadium the Whitecaps have called home since 2011.