Furlong joined the Whitecaps in 2012 after leading the drive for the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics and Paralympics.

John Furlong has resigned his post as executive chair of the Vancouver Whitecaps, effective Dec. 31.

Whitecaps co-owner/director Jeff Mallett will assume the executive chair position, formalizing his role as the public representative of an ownership group also featuring Greg Kerfoot, Steve Luczo and former Canadian NBA star Steve Nash.

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The Whitecaps had a dismal season, finishing last in the MLS Western Conference and marred by off-pitch controversy. Long-time team president Bob Lenarduzzi stepped aside in August.

Furlong had joined the Whitecaps in 2012 after leading the drive for the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics and Paralympics.

Mallett also has served as a governor on the Major League Soccer board and is an active committee member at the league in business, media and new ventures.

The native of North Vancouver also is a co-owner of Major League Baseball’s San Francisco Giants.

“We are very thankful to John for his guidance and support during his eight years at the club,” Mallett said in a statement. “John brought a wealth of knowledge and experience and was a helpful, seasoned resource for the ownership team and our executives.”

with Canadian Press files