Tomorrow at Willoughby Community Park we mark 'One Year Out' to the biggest, most watched sporting event on earth coming to Vancouver - the 2026 World Cup.
In an op-ed article for the Langley Advance Times this week our co-owner Dean Shillington explains why maximising this once in a generation opportunity is one of the core reasons why in 2022 Vancouver FC was created.
WeareenteringamomentintimewherewecanchangethesportofsoccerinCanadaforever.Dean Shillington
Dean explains how Vancouver Football Club is on a long-term journey to develop a permanent and sustainable soccer ecosystem that unlocks the future of our youth that love the beautiful game. Kids in our community deserve a clear pathway from grassroots up through the ranks of playing professionally, to progress further, achieve their dreams and work towards representing Canada at future World Cups.
The 2026 World Cup is a huge milestone on that journey and the countdown starts tomorrow.
On Wednesday it was fitting that our Vancouver FC players were at the heart of the city's official unveiling of the countdown clock at the Terry Fox Plaza. While tomorrow we have our own One Year Out celebration for our home match against Forge FC. From 11am at Willoughby Community Park there'll be pre-game family tailgate, free hot dogs, live music, face-painting and World Cup themed giveaways with those in their national team's colours in with a chance to win a 2026 season membership.
Read Dean Shillington's article for the Langley Advance Times in full here.
