B.C. court approves settlement in class-action lawsuit against Vancouver Whitecaps
A B.C. court approved a $475,000 settlement in a class-action lawsuit against the Vancouver Whitecaps and Major League Soccer regarding misleading promotion of player appearances.Summary
The B.C. Supreme Court has approved a $475,000 settlement in a class-action lawsuit against the Vancouver Whitecaps and Major League Soccer stemming from a 2024 game where promoted star players, including Lionel Messi, did not participate. Justice Andrew Majawa deemed the settlement fair and reasonable, addressing claims of misleading promotional material and violations of consumer legislation. The Whitecaps maintained they had no control over Inter Miami’s player lineup. As part of the agreement, the team will prominently display ticketing terms and clarify that player participation isn’t guaranteed. The settlement funds, after legal fees, will be donated to B.C. sports charities like KidSport BC, Canada Scores, and the Boys and Girls Club of the B.C.’s South Coast. The judge acknowledged the case’s complexity and the risks faced by representative plaintiffs, like Ho Chun, who were subjected to online harassment and false accusations. Class members, approximately 50,000 ticket buyers, received partial compensation through free tickets and discounts.
(Source：CP24 Toronto)