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Whitecaps centre back Belal Halbouni says he has Hodgkin lymphoma
Vancouver Whitecaps defender Belal Halbouni, 26, says he has been diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma and began treatment in his hometown last week. He will step away from football to focus on treatment and recovery. The club says it supports him and has extended his contract through the 2027-28 season.
Vancouver Whitecaps centre back Belal Halbouni said Friday that he has been diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma. The Major League Soccer club said the 26-year-old, who is from London, Ont., began treatment for the cancer in his hometown last week.
Sporting director Axel Schuster said Halbouni and his family have the club’s full support. Halbouni will take time away from football to focus on treatment and recovery, Schuster said, adding that the club will be there for him and looks forward to welcoming him back when the time is right.
The Whitecaps also confirmed Friday that Halbouni has signed a contract extension through the 2027-28 season. Halbouni thanked the club for standing by him, saying its support went beyond football and reminded him what it means to be part of a family. He said he was proud to represent the club, grateful to call Vancouver home and thankful for the hope the club gave him.
Halbouni joined the team in February 2024 and has made 26 appearances across all competitions. Vancouver will close its regular season Saturday at CF Montreal. The Whitecaps lead the Western Conference with 61 points and a record of 18-8-7.
The Canadian Press first published this report on Nov. 6, 2026.