Vancouver FC Countersues Ex-Coach Ghotbi Amid Legal Battle

UPDATE: Vancouver FC has launched a legal counterclaim against its former head coach, Afshin Ghotbi, amid ongoing litigation over a disputed $500,000 loan. This urgent development comes just days after Ghotbi filed a lawsuit against SixFive Sports & Entertainment in January 2024, alleging the pro soccer team failed to repay the loan he provided during a cash flow crisis.

Ghotbi claims he lent the money in the summer of 2023 after Rob Friend, a director of the team, indicated the organization was facing financial difficulties. Initially promised repayment by July 2024 at a 12 percent interest rate, Ghotbi was told upon reaching that date that the team “needed the funds.” He agreed to delay repayment in exchange for a higher 20 percent interest rate, but when he requested his money back after leaving the team in July 2025, he was informed that other creditors were ahead of him in line.

In a response filed on January 15, 2024, Vancouver FC painted a contrasting narrative, asserting that Ghotbi had initially expressed interest in investing in the company. They claim that the loan structure was intended to allow Ghotbi to later convert the loan into equity. According to SixFive, Ghotbi subsequently sought repayment instead of pursuing equity, despite being aware of the priority of other creditors.

The counterclaim, led by managing director Dean Shillington, alleges that Ghotbi is abusing the legal process and breaching confidentiality. They assert he included Shillington in the lawsuit to “exact a measure of revenge” for his termination as head coach. The company contends that before Ghotbi filed his lawsuit, both parties were engaged in confidential negotiations regarding the loan repayment, which Ghotbi has allegedly violated by making the details public.

Vancouver FC further claims that Ghotbi disseminated his notice of claim to members of the media, including the Canadian and international soccer press, with the intent to harm the reputations of both the company and Shillington. They argue that Shillington has faced reputational damage and are seeking compensatory damages.

As this legal battle unfolds, both sides remain embroiled in a highly publicized conflict that could have significant implications for their reputations and finances. Legal experts are closely monitoring the situation, as the outcome of these claims could reshape the landscape for future professional coaching contracts and negotiations within the sport.

No claims or counterclaims have been proven in court yet, but the stakes are high as both parties prepare for what could be a lengthy legal process. Fans and stakeholders in the soccer community are urged to stay informed as further developments arise in this unfolding story.