Vancouver Whitecaps FC and the City of Vancouver are in talks to construct a new soccer stadium at Hastings Park, aiming to secure the Major League Soccer (MLS) club’s future as their current lease at BC Place nears expiration. On December 11, 2025, Whitecaps CEO Axel Schuster and Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that allows for an exclusive negotiation period until December 31, 2026. This period will focus on defining terms for a ground lease, including stadium design, financial arrangements, and community benefits.
The proposed stadium is to be situated within the existing Hastings Racecourse footprint, an area historically linked to racing and casino activities. The City of Vancouver will maintain land ownership while the Whitecaps lease the venue. Notably, an agreement has also been reached concerning the Tsleil-Waututh Nation’s acquisition of the casino business currently operating on the site.
This initiative follows the Whitecaps’ notable performance in the 2025 season, where they reached the MLS Cup Final for the first time but lost 3-1 to Inter Miami. Concerns about the current lease have been voiced by MLS Commissioner Don Garber, who previously indicated that a lack of progress on a new stadium could result in potential relocation for the team.
The MOU represents a pivotal step toward establishing a vibrant sports and cultural destination in Vancouver. Mayor Sim has expressed optimism regarding the project, highlighting its potential to create jobs, stimulate the local economy, and revitalize Hastings Park for sports, concerts, and community events. Both the Whitecaps and the City of Vancouver are dedicated to transparency and public engagement as they move forward in securing a long-term home for the team.
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