Major League Soccer Commissioner Don Garber claims a cybercriminal gained access to his social media account following the appearance of a childish message directed at British Columbia Premier David Eby.
The controversy began when Eby shared a brief 45-second clip on his social media platform Wednesday, promising supporters he would work to keep the Vancouver Whitecaps from moving elsewhere.
“The Whitecaps are British Columbia, and I want you to know that we are at the table fighting hard to save the Whitecaps,” Eby stated in his message to supporters.
Shortly after, a response from Garber’s verified account targeted Eby’s statement with the phrase “Liar liar pants on fire.”
Approximately sixty minutes following the controversial message, Garber offered his explanation: “My account was compromised earlier this evening. The issue has been resolved. I appreciate Premier Eby for taking the time to meet with me today.”
The league’s executive vice president of communications, Dan Courtemanche, supported Garber’s explanation by confirming on social media that “Commissioner Garber was hacked and did not post this.”
The 68-year-old league chief, who has led MLS since 1999, traveled to Vancouver for Thursday’s FIFA Congress and scheduled meetings with local officials regarding the Whitecaps’ uncertain future.
The soccer club traces its origins to 1974 when it began as part of the North American Soccer League before joining MLS as an expansion team in 2009.
Since December 2024, ownership has actively sought buyers, though “no viable offer has emerged that would keep the club here” despite engaging with over 100 potential purchasers, team officials stated.
According to ESPN’s recent reporting, investment groups from Phoenix and Las Vegas have shown interest in acquiring and relocating the franchise.
