Valour FC, one of the Canadian Premier League's seven founding clubs, will cease operations ahead of the 2026 season after years of financial strain and uncertainty, the club and league confirmed Friday. The announcement ends a chapter that began with optimism in 2019 but ultimately could not overcome persistent operating losses, stagnant attendance, and the absence of a sustainable long-term ownership plan. Winnipeg Football Club, which operated Valour, informed the CPL earlier this month of its intention to fold the team. League officials said they explored multiple options — including attracting new investors, continuing league-backed funding, and alternative operating models — but none offered a viable path forward. Over the last two seasons, the CPL had covered millions of dollars in operating costs to keep the club running. “After review, it became clear that there is no sustainable path forward for Valour FC at this time,” the CPL stated. “Investing wisely means focusing resources where they create the greatest long-term impact for the league and the game.” The decision followed weeks of uncertainty as players, staff, and management awaited clarity following the end of Valour’s regular season. All Valour players remaining under contract beyond this now concluded 2025 season automatically become free agents or return to their parent club. It’s a massive blow to the CPL, who just announced last month that FC Supra de Québec, who will play just outside of Montréal in Laval, will become the league’s third expansion club. Vancouver FC entered the league immediately after FC Edmonton folded, so addition has only come with subtraction for the league entering their eighth season. Valour expressed gratitude to its supporters — including season ticket members, corporate partners, and the Red River Rising supporters’ group — and said all contractual obligations will be honoured through the end of 2025. Fans with ticket credits will receive full refunds. The club’s financial challenges had deepened in recent seasons. Documents showed losses of $2.22 million in 2024 and $1.25 million in 2023, driven by expenses far outpacing revenue. On the field, Valour struggled as well, finishing last in the league in consecutive seasons and depending on short-term loans to fill key roster spots. Attendance hovered around 3,000, well below the 5,000 benchmark ownership said was needed for sustainability. Despite the setback, several league and club sources stressed that Winnipeg remains a viable market for professional soccer if a committed ownership group emerges. For now, however, Valour FC’s era in the CPL has come to an end.