Major League Soccer (MLS) has unveiled the schedule for the 2026 regular season, highlighting significant upcoming events for Vancouver Whitecaps FC. The team will begin its 16th season on February 21, 2026, facing Real Salt Lake at BC Place. This match will mark a notable milestone as the club’s 500th competitive game.
Details of the 2026 MLS Season
Vancouver’s CEO, Axel Schuster, expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming season, particularly with Vancouver set to host the FIFA Men’s World Cup. The team plans to maximize its home matches early in the season, playing eight of their first nine games at home. This approach aims to ease travel burdens during the demanding mid-season period.
Home Games and Key Matches
Whitecaps FC’s home schedule will consist of:
- 12 Saturday matches
- 3 Wednesday games
- 1 Friday and 1 Sunday match
The season opener against Real Salt Lake on February 21 will repeat their 2023 season kickoff. Additionally, on February 28, the team will host Canadian rivals Toronto FC. Further highlights include:
- April 4: Home match against Portland Timbers
- August 1: Match against Los Angeles FC at BC Place
- October 31: Final home game against Seattle Sounders FC
- November 7: Regular season finale at CF Montréal
Ticket Information
To secure access to every home match, fans are encouraged to become season members. The new package includes an Apple TV subscription, which provides coverage for all regular-season games and select playoff matches. Single match tickets will be available for purchase in the new year, with priority access for season members.
Planning for the FIFA Men’s World Cup 2026
MLS will pause its operations during the World Cup period, from May 25 to July 16, 2026. This break provides both players and fans the opportunity to engage fully with the international tournament. BC Place will host several World Cup matches, showcasing its status as a prominent venue in North America.
Upcoming Competitions
Vancouver Whitecaps FC will also participate in the Concacaf Champions Cup, continuing its tradition of competing for continental supremacy. The draw for this tournament will occur on December 9, 2025.
Additionally, the club aims to secure its fifth consecutive TELUS Canadian Championship title, further solidifying its place in Canadian soccer history.
As the new season approaches, fans can stay updated through El-Balad for the latest news and developments related to Vancouver Whitecaps FC and Major League Soccer.
