“Vancouver Whitecaps midfielder Russell Teibert has announced his retirement from professional play and will be shifting gears to a position within the club’s front office.

“In a statement released on Friday, Teibert reflected, ‘Some time ago, I made a personal commitment to myself and to our club: I would only consider my work complete when our team’s performance reached a higher standard.’ He continued, ‘We’ve faced challenges together, overcoming obstacles and persevering through tough times. Each challenge has only reinforced our resolve. Today, I retire with a sense of pride, knowing we’ve fulfilled that commitment.'”

“Every day, I poured my heart and soul into it. Every moment was valuable.”

Hailing from Ontario, Canada, Teibert holds the fourth position in the Whitecaps’ history with 301 appearances and played a key role in the club’s success, clinching the Canadian Championship three times, including the last two consecutive years.

Throughout his impressive 16-year MLS journey, Teibert remained loyal to Vancouver, making a record 253 regular-season appearances and 193 starts, contributing five goals and 24 assists.

“We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Russell on an outstanding career and express our gratitude for his remarkable contributions to the club over the past 16 years,” stated Whitecaps CEO and sporting director Axel Schuster. “In today’s era, it’s rare for a player to remain with a single club for their entire career.”

Schuster continued, “Russell has a deep understanding of the club’s history and significance to the community. He has formed strong connections within our community and across the province. His enduring values, combined with his longstanding tenure as a player, will now be channeled into a new role within the club.”

Teibert also made significant contributions to Canada’s men’s national team, recording two goals and two assists in 27 appearances.

The Whitecaps will kick off their 2024 MLS season on Saturday, hosting Charlotte FC.