Whitecaps support Halbouni through treatment and confirm contract extension

Vancouver Whitecaps defender Belal Halbouni has been diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma and will take time away from football for treatment and recovery, the club announced Friday. The Whitecaps said the 26-year-old began treatment the previous week in his hometown of London, Ontario.

The same November 6 announcement confirmed a contract extension through the 2027-28 MLS season. Vancouver has therefore paired its public support with a continued contractual commitment to Halbouni while he concentrates on his health.

Sporting director Axel Schuster said Halbouni and his family have the club’s full support and that Vancouver will welcome him back when the time is right. The statement did not give a return date.

Halbouni thanked the organization for standing by him and said its support extended beyond football. He joined Vancouver in February 2024 and was part of the club’s Canadian Championship-winning squads in 2024 and 2025.