MLS owners discuss potential Vancouver relocation

Owners from Major League Soccer met earlier this month to review the future of Vancouver Whitecaps, including the possibility of relocating the team, according to sources.

A move to Las Vegas was the main option discussed. League officials have also held talks with investor groups interested in bringing a franchise to the city. However, the group behind the proposed $10 billion “Starr Vegas” development is not involved in these discussions.

Other markets, including Phoenix, Indianapolis and Sacramento, have also shown interest, with Phoenix seen as another strong candidate.

The future of the Whitecaps in Vancouver remains uncertain. The club is currently up for sale, and its lease at BC Place expires at the end of the year. Efforts to secure a new stadium deal in the city are ongoing but have yet to produce a solution.

“Since December 2024, ownership has focused on finding a buyer committed to keeping the team in Vancouver, but no agreement has been reached,” the club said in a statement.

Any relocation would need approval from MLS owners and would likely include a significant relocation fee. Recent expansion deals—such as the $500 million paid by San Diego FC—set a benchmark for potential new ownership groups.

Fans have begun organizing a “Save the Caps” campaign, similar to the movement that helped keep the Columbus Crew in place during a previous relocation attempt.

Despite the uncertainty off the field, Vancouver is performing well this season and remains among the top teams in the league. However, questions about the club’s long-term future continue to overshadow its success.