Whitecaps legend starts petition to keep MLS franchise in Vancouver amid relocation fears

Tom Weber

• Updated: 24 Mar 2026 16:27 CDT
• 9 min read

News

Former Vancouver Whitecaps goalkeeper David Ousted has started a petition to raise awareness for the Major League Soccer franchise's uncertain future.

The Caps have been playing in MLS since 2011, but a debate currently rages as to whether the team can remain in Vancouver. The club has been up for sale since December 2024, but finding prospective buyers has proved difficult.

That is because the Caps have struggled to generate the same kind of revenue streams as other franchises in the league. CEO Axel Schuster noted in January that the Canadian club earns $40 million CAD less than the average MLS team.

A major reason behind this is the club's stadium situation. The team have called BC Place their home since before MLS even existed, with the original Whitecaps briefly playing in the newly constructed arena back in the twilight years of the NASL in the early 1980s.

However, the Caps are leasing the ground from PavCo, the government entity in charge of the stadium, and it is believed that having their own soccer-specific stadium would go a long way towards ensuring the franchise's long-term sustainability.

Ousted wants Caps to remain in Vancouver

The stadium question has become quite disconcerting. A short-term agreement for the continued use of BC Place was reached with PavCo ahead of the 2026 season, but only after the government organisation made major concessions.

The Whitecaps technically have a site ready to build a new stadium - the City of Vancouver offered up Hastings Park in December - but someone obviously has to pay for it, and this continues to be the biggest hurdle.

Mayor Ken Sim was quite clear at the time when he said that the Whitecaps likely won't be able to remain in Vancouver unless they build their own stadium.

"Yes, there are interested parties that would like to buy the Whitecaps, [but there are also] interested parties who want to take the Whitecaps out of the City of Vancouver," he warned.

"If there is no opportunity to have your own stadium… there is no viable option for anyone who wants to keep the Whitecaps in the City of Vancouver."

Amid these worrying developments, former Caps goalkeeper David Ousted has now taken matters into his own hands, launching a petition named "Save the Whitecaps from relocation."

The Dane made more than 150 appearances for the team across four years in the mid-2010s and was one of the best shot-stoppers in MLS for a time. He is now a youth coach in nearby Kamloops.

"The future of the Vancouver Whitecaps in Vancouver still feels uncertain, and it’s something that matters a lot to me and to many people across the city and throughout BC," Ousted wrote on Instagram.

"The Whitecaps are an important part of Vancouver’s sporting culture and have deep roots in the community. For many families - including mine - the club represents years of memories, connection, and a shared love of the game.

"Finding a way forward will take everyone working together - fans, community leaders, partners, and stakeholders - to ensure the club can continue to grow and thrive here at home."

The petition has garnered more than 2,300 signatures within a couple of days, illustrating that Caps fans are determined to keep their team in Vancouver. Supporters took the opportunity to share their connection with the club in the comments.

"I was 8 years old when the Whitecaps won the Soccer Bowl in the old NASL and captured the imagination of this city and province," one fan wrote. "I've been a fan ever since, and to say it would be devastating to lose this team - our team - would be an understatement.

"To all the decision-makers in local and provincial government, to the team owners and to MLS: how will you choose to be remembered? As saviours of this club, or villains in its demise?"

A former employee added: "I worked for the club from 2007 to 2011. I didn't put in all that hard work for a low salary just for the club to be moved. I accepted lower pay, knowing what we were doing would be a legacy for generations in BC. The Whitecaps belong to Vancouver."

"The Whitecaps have been an important aspect of feeling part of the local community," another fan wrote. "It would be an incredible shame to see them leave. A soccer team is not just entertainment, it’s a community."

This sentiment was echoed by many others. "I have been a Whitecaps fan since the days in the NASL at Old Empire," a different supporter stated. "This team means a lot to me and many others. It brings communities together. We need our Caps."

Here is the full statement from Ousted's petition: "I am David Ousted, and I once had the privilege of playing for the Vancouver Whitecaps. The team has been more than just a soccer club for many of us; it represents a lifetime of memories, achievements, and community bonds.

"Now, working with Kamloops United youth soccer in BC's interior, I see firsthand the impact and inspiration the Whitecaps continue to provide to the younger generation province-wide.

"For over 50 years, the Whitecaps have not only provided exhilarating moments on the field but have also contributed enormously to the cultural, social, and economic fabric of Vancouver and BC.

"The potential relocation of the team would be a devastating loss not only for the loyal fan base but for the community as well. The team’s presence in Vancouver extends beyond the games - they are a symbol of unity and pride, celebrated by people of all ages across the province.

"The economic contributions of the team are undeniable. Local businesses thrive on game days, generating millions in revenue each year. Many industries benefit from the influx of fans, both local and from afar - including restaurant, hospitality, & tourism. Any move would directly affect this revenue, potentially leading to significant financial losses for countless Vancouver citizens and businesses.

"The cultural impact of the team’s 50-year legacy cannot be understated. The Whitecaps have become a part of the city's identity, with fans sharing stories of attending games with their families or watching local players rise through the ranks to play professionally.

"Young, aspiring athletes draw inspiration from the team, dreaming of one day donning the Whitecaps jersey. Removing the team from Vancouver would sever this cultural lineage and deprive future generations of similar experiences and dreams. My own experience with the club, the city, and our fans was a huge part of my family's return back to Vancouver.

"Let's secure the team's future at BC Place, while the team awaits a new potential stadium at the PNE. We urge everyone, the government and the local business community, to collaborate and find a solution to prevent the relocation of the Vancouver Whitecaps.

"It's essential that provisions be made to support the team's financial needs while maintaining their historic roots in Vancouver. Flexibility and commitment from everyone is crucial to keeping the Whitecaps where they belong. The MLS Commissioner has openly stated that the current situation for the Whitecaps is untenable.

"I am not accustomed to sitting on the 'sideline.' We all need to jump onto the field and support our amazing club. Please sign this petition to show your support for the Vancouver Whitecaps and to encourage all stakeholders to work together to ensure the team remains in Vancouver.

"Let’s protect this vital part of our community and continue to build on its incredible legacy. Your signature can make a difference. Let’s rally together and stand united for our beloved club. Signed, David Ousted & friends."

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