Whitecaps standing strong for Belal Halbouni in his cancer fight

Vancouver Whitecaps defender Belal Halbouni announced he has been diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma, prompting the MLS club to sign him to a new contract extension. The 26-year-old center back revealed his diagnosis on Friday and began undergoing medical treatment in his hometown of London, Ontario, last week.

Halbouni had been sidelined since suffering a knee injury during last season's playoff series against Los Angeles FC. With his contract set to expire, Whitecaps CEO Axel Schuster confirmed the team extended his deal through the end of the 2027-28 season to provide him with stability and peace of mind.