Whitecaps FC setting attendance records, seeing business success

Vancouver Whitecaps FC plans to open BC Place's upper bowl for their first playoff game on Sunday, aiming to break the franchise's playoff attendance record of 30,204 fans. So far, they have sold over 28,000 tickets for the match against FC Dallas, which is part of a best-of-three playoff series. This season, the team has welcomed more than 504,000 fans across all competitions, nearing last year's record of 528,681. The Whitecaps credit their success to various factors, including record merchandise and food sales, as well as a new sponsorship deal with Borden Ladner Gervais LLP. The signing of German superstar Thomas Müller in August has contributed significantly to fan engagement and merchandise sales.

CEO Axel Schuster views Müller as a key player for the team's future, projecting a $5 million investment if he stays for the entire contract. The team also faced challenges due to stadium renovations, which limited seating capacity. Despite these challenges, the Whitecaps are optimistic about their growing fan base and business success.