Vancouver Whitecaps centre back Belal Halbouni said Friday he has been diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma and has begun treatment in his hometown.
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Vancouver Whitecaps centre back Belal Halbouni said Friday he has been diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma.
The club said the 26-year-old from London, Ont., began treatment for the cancer in his hometown last week.
“Belal and his family have the full support of everyone at the club,” Whitecaps sporting director Axel Schuster said. “Belal will take time away from football to focus on his treatment and recovery. We will be here for him every step of the way, and we look 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 said he is grateful for the support from the club, adding: “I want to express my gratitude to Vancouver Whitecaps FC. The way this club has stood by me goes far beyond football, and it has reminded me what it truly means to be part of a family. “I’m proud to represent this badge, grateful to call Vancouver home, and thankful for the light at the end of the tunnel that they give me.”
Halbouni joined the team in February 2024 and has made 26 appearances across all competitions.
Vancouver will close out its regular season Saturday at CF Montreal, and the Whitecaps are listed as 18-8-7 with 61 points to lead the Western Conference standings.
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