Cause for Panic?

By: Lee | August 26th, 2009

The Road to 2011 just got a lot more bumpy as it seems the retractable roof stadium project could be in jeopardy.

On the face of it, this could be potentially disastrous for the Whitecaps entry into MLS, as a renovated BC Place was a big reason why Vancouver was given an expansion team. Lenarduzzi is certainly a bit worried.

Is it time for Whitecaps fans to panic?

No, at least not yet. Most signs so far point to the project being delayed due to a complex bidding process. We’ll have a much better idea of the situation once the BC Provincial Government’s budget is presented.

I’ve gone through a list of possible scenarios of what could happen to the stadium and how this would affect the Whitecaps.

Best Scenario – budget includes stadium, the roof is completed on schedule as planned.

OK Scenario – budget includes stadium, the roof is delayed a few months, meaning the Whitecaps play some of their games without a retractable roof

Not-so-good Scenario – the roof is delayed more than a year due to a tight budget. MLS may delay the Whitecaps entry to 2012

Worst-case Scenario – the roof is cancelled due to a tight budget. MLS may cancel the Whitecaps entry in 2011.

For those of you who are shitting your pants looking at the worst-case scenarios, keep in mind that even if those were to occur, Vancouver will still likely be in MLS – in 2011. The league loves the Whitecaps and what they offer the league. It’s much harder to lose and expansion team than to gain one. Remember, this is a league that accepted San Jose back into the league with a 10,000 seat stadium.

Also, BC Place is being renovated as we speak and will not be in 2011 the dank, crowd-repelling stadium it is now, even if it doesn’t have a retractable roof. Even if the project is cancelled, it is not a complete disaster for the Whitecaps.

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Category: Team News

Tags: BC Place, MLS Expansion, Team News, Vancouver 2011, Whitecaps

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• Shaun |  August 26th, 2009 at 5:40 pm

  
  
  

  I think we’re going to be looking at the Not-so-good to Worst-case scenario. If they announce a timeline with the delay then maybe MLS will let it slide.

  However I don’t think they will wait for more than a year. If we find out later the roof wont be on until 2013, we’re staying in the USL. Now, if there is a God, perhaps construction on the Waterfront Stadium could begin in 2011, and be ready for 2013, then yes, we’ll still probably be alright.

  This screws the Lions completely as well since their trying to hold on to season-ticket holders with the new roof. Since the team is playing shit, the roof is the only thing fans have to look forward to.

  Posted from Canada

  

• Laurie |  August 26th, 2009 at 9:28 pm

  
  
  

  Nooooooo!!! Seattle is counting on you guys in 2011!!! My family is already planning our road trips!

  Posted from United States

  

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