Empowering Next-Generation Canadian Talent, National Partnership Celebrates Grassroots Soccer with Young Athletes

TORONTO, Sept. 18, 2026 /CNW/ -- Chevrolet and Major League Soccer (MLS) today announced the return of the Chevrolet Driven FC youth soccer experience. This national initiative is dedicated to recognizing and celebrating deserving young soccer players across Canada who display hustle, heart, and grit both on the pitch and within their local communities.

Scheduled for later this month, the program will deliver unforgettable opportunities for young players to train, learn, and interact directly with professional players from Canada's three MLS clubs: Toronto FC, CF Montréal and Vancouver Whitecaps FC.

The 2026 Chevrolet Driven FC tour will visit each host city on the following dates:

• Toronto, ON (Toronto FC): Sunday, September 20, 2026 at BMO Training Grounds
• Montreal, QC (CF Montréal): Tuesday, September 22, 2026 at Stade Saputo
• Vancouver, BC (Vancouver Whitecaps FC): Sunday, September 27, 2026 at the National Soccer Development Centre

Each event will host up to 85 selected youth soccer players. Across all three dates, young athletes will hone their skills through interactive training drills, build lasting friendships, and participate in candid Q&A sessions with first-team MLS players.

MLS Player Mentorship

A headline feature of the experience is the direct involvement of premier professional soccer talent. Several first-team MLS players from each club will participate on field across their respective events to lead drills, share career advice, and mentor participants.

Featured players include Toronto FC defender/midfielder Richie Laryea, along with Vancouver Whitecaps FC defender Sam Adekugbe. Together with additional first-team players and club representatives across all three markets, they will help deliver an unmatched mentorship experience for Canada's young aspiring soccer players.

"Major League Soccer is proud to collaborate with Chevrolet on an initiative that brings young players closer to the game and the athletes who inspire them," said Diego Moratorio, General Manager, MLS Canada. "Chevrolet Driven FC creates meaningful access for youth across Canada while supporting our shared commitment to growing soccer at the grassroots level."

Community-Driven Nomination Process

The nomination process for Chevrolet Driven FC is led directly by each host MLS club and actively supported by local Chevrolet dealerships through community outreach initiatives. The participating clubs engage with local youth leagues, schools, and community organizations to identify deserving young athletes, with local dealerships providing essential support to help bring these opportunities to their surrounding neighborhoods.

"At Chevrolet, we believe in the power of sport to unite communities and inspire the next generation of leaders and athletes," said Lauren MacDonald, Chief Marketing Officer, General Motors Canada. "Partnering with MLS allows us to deliver unique experiences directly to local youth. Chevrolet Driven FC is about removing barriers, celebrating community spirit, and giving young players memories that will stay with them forever."

How to Nominate a Youth Player

There is still time remaining for community members to nominate deserving youth soccer players for this year's events. To submit a nomination for an inspiring young player in your community, please visit the nomination page. For more information about the Chevrolet Driven FC program, please visit www.drivenfc.ca

About Chevrolet

Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world's largest car brands. Chevrolet models include electric and fuel-efficient vehicles that feature engaging performance, design that makes the heart beat, passive and active safety features, and easy-to-use technology, all at a value. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.ca/en.

About Major League Soccer (MLS)

Headquartered in New York City, Major League Soccer – celebrating its 31st season in 2026 – features 30 clubs throughout the United States and Canada. All MLS and Leagues Cup matches can be watched on the Apple TV app on Apple devices, smart TVs, streaming devices, set-top boxes, and game consoles, and the web at tv.apple.com, and features the most expansive and accessible lineup of programming ever for MLS fans. For more information about MLS, visit mlssoccer.com. For more information about the Apple TV app, visit apple.com/apple-tv-app.

SOURCE Chevrolet Canada