MLS Commissioner Hacked
Don Garber, the MLS commissioner, announced that his X social media account was hacked on Wednesday night, resulting in a provocative tweet directed at British Columbia’s Premier David Eby. This tweet was a response to Premier Eby’s firm commitment to safeguard the Vancouver Whitecaps from any threat of relocation.
Premier Eby’s Assurance
In a video shared the following day, Eby reassured Whitecaps supporters, asserting,
“The Whitecaps are British Columbia, and I want you to know that we are at the table fighting hard to save the Whitecaps.”
Garber’s Response
Garber had originally posted a reply calling Eby a “Liar liar pants on fire,” which has since been removed. Later, in an update on his account, Garber clarified,
“My account was compromised earlier this evening. The issue has been resolved. I appreciate Premier Eby for taking the time to meet with me today.”
League’s Statement
An MLS spokesperson later commented that the misleading post was the work of an unauthorized third-party, though they did not specify how access was gained. Dan Courtemanche, the league’s executive VP of communications, reiterated through his own X message that Garber had been hacked and was not responsible for the inappropriate comment.
Whitecaps’ Future
Garber’s Vancouver visit serves two purposes: engaging with local officials regarding the Whitecaps’ uncertain future and attending a FIFA Congress. The situation is critical for the Whitecaps, who have been on the market since December 2024. Unfortunately, despite dialogues with over a hundred interested parties, there have been no concrete offers that would secure the team’s presence in Vancouver.
Potential Relocation
Although the MLS and Whitecaps favor keeping the franchise in its current location, there are discussions about potential relocation, with interested investors from both Las Vegas and Phoenix. Previous reports indicated that a subcommittee of MLS owners convened to deliberate on this matter.
Economic Concerns
A key concern for retaining the team relates to the economics of their home ground, BC Place, owned by PavCo, the Provincial Crown Corporation. Although the Whitecaps agreed to improved lease terms that could generate $1 to $1.5 million in revenue, team CEO Axel Schuster expressed that this would not suffice for financial sustainability.
Stadium Development
Further complicating matters, last December, the Whitecaps and the City of Vancouver reached a memorandum regarding the possible creation of a new stadium and entertainment district in Hastings Park. However, Vancouver’s Mayor, Ken Sim, cautioned that this process could take “four-plus years” to realize—too lengthy for MLS’s current timeline.
Fan Support
Meanwhile, fervent fans of the team have begun a “Save the Caps” initiative, showing their support with banners and signs at recent games, such as last weekend’s match against the Colorado Rapids.
