Sports
Inter&Co Secures Long-Term Naming Rights for Orlando’s Soccer-Specific Stadium
Published
2 years agoon
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FNN SPORTSORLANDO, Fla., — Inter&Co, a leading provider of financial and digital commerce services, Orlando City SC, and the Orlando Pride today announced a long-term agreement to name the teams’ home venue Inter&Co Stadium. In September, Inter&Co became the Official Financial Institution of Orlando’s Major League Soccer and National Women’s Soccer League teams.
The enhanced relationship in Orlando designates Inter&Co as the first international partner for the Club. Inter&Co is also the first financial institution with Latin-American roots to own the naming rights of a major stadium in the United States.
“It’s only fitting that as we enter our 10th season in the MLS here in Orlando and ninth in the NWSL that we would partner for the next decade with a global company, not only committed to our community, but with a shared vision for the future,” said Chairman Mark Wilf. “We are truly excited about what we will build together, enhancing the fan experience in the venue and further connecting our soccer cultures in meaningful ways.”
“We are excited to take our partnership with Orlando to the next level. This is a breakthrough moment for our company as we expand our presence in the United States — it will allow us to connect with Orlando’s young and diverse population, including a vibrant Latino community, through our shared love for soccer,” said João Vitor Menin, CEO of Inter&Co. “And we could not have asked for a better partner to build upon this state-of-the-art venue where Central Floridians come together and visitors from all over the world have memorable experiences,” Menin added.
Inter, which is part of the Inter&Co economic group, is a digital banking pioneer in Brazil serving more than 30 million clients with the convenience of paying bills, saving, investing, shopping, and earning rewards in a single app. The company has a long history of supporting and investing in soccer, including relationships with Athletico Paranaense, Fortaleza Esporte Clube, and the MRV arena, home to Clube Atlético Mineiro. In the United States, clients can open no-fee digital accounts and send remittances to 60+ countries through the Inter&Co app, among other services.
“As we look for ways to build on our Club’s successes, we know Inter&Co will be a vital partner in continuing to grow the Orlando City and Orlando Pride brands in the global landscape, both on the field and off,” Wilf added. “We look forward to collaborating on ways to not only expand our business profiles in Latin and South America, but we are excited for the future benefits that our soccer sides will reap through expanded competition, scouting and brand awareness opportunities.”
State-of-the-Art Technology
Backed by partnership investments from Club ownership, Inter&Co Stadium has begun an enhancement project that will bring greater technology to the venue. Upgrades include five million new LED pixels, a new state-of-the-art video board, new fascia LED throughout the bowl, a 16’x9’ LED wall in the West Club, as well as over 200+ new TV monitors throughout the suites, premium spaces, concession stands and lower-level concourse.
Additionally, fans will experience new, interactive concourse displays; Wi-Fi 6 and 6E, the most up-to-date technology available today; 5G antennas for increased cell phone coverage; and new hospitality options such as “The Terrace” in Section 1. Additional enhancements will be announced prior to the start of the regular season.
The venue will officially re-open to the public on January 27 when Orlando City SC will host a preseason FC Series friendly against Brazil’s Clube de Regatas do Flamengo. The 2024 MLS home opener is slated for Feb. 24, when Orlando City SC hosts CF Montreal, with the Pride season set to kick off in March 2024.
World-Class Entertainment
Inter&Co, Orlando City, and the Orlando Pride envision the stadium, located in the heart of Downtown Orlando, as a world-class sports and entertainment venue. In addition to MLS, NWSL and marquee international soccer matches, the stadium will continue to expand its profile by bringing cultural and music events, starting with a post-game concert for ticketholders following a 2024 Orlando City match.
A Financial Partner to Fans
As the Official Sponsor for accounts, debit and credit cards, mortgages, and remittances, Inter&Co will be a financial partner to Orlando fans, who will get exclusive access to a full suite of products on the company’s Super App, as well as rewards, perks, and unique experiences at Inter&Co Stadium. “We make it accessible, easy, and convenient to manage your money well, in a single app. Most Americans tend to be under served and over charged in their banking relationship. And we want to change that, just like we did in Brazil for over 30 million clients,” said João Vitor Menin, CEO of Inter&Co.
Commitment to Community
As part of its commitment to the greater Orlando community, Inter&Co will join forces with the clubs to introduce new grassroots initiatives to enrich and support neighbors of Inter&Co Stadium. Inter&Co will enhance local financial literacy programs for youth with other programs announced in the coming months.
“By putting our name on the stadium, we are making a pledge to the Orlando community,” Menin added. “We believe in the transformative power of financial education and technology to unlock possibilities, and we’re here to do that for each and every Central Floridian.”
Exploria Resorts, the venue’s previous naming rights partner since June 2019, will continue as the Exclusive, Official Vacation Club of Orlando City SC and Orlando Pride.
About Inter&Co, Inc.:
Inter&Co is the holding company of Inter Group and indirectly holds all of Banco Inter’s shares. Inter is the premier Super App providing financial and digital commerce services to more than 30 million customers. We offer a complete range of solutions, including banking, investments, credit, insurance and cross-border services, in addition to a marketplace that brings together the best retailers in Brazil and the United States. To learn more, visit https://inter.co/en/us/
About Orlando City SC & Orlando Pride:
In November 2013, Orlando City Soccer Club was awarded a Major League Soccer (MLS) franchise, becoming the league’s 21st franchise. The team began play in March 2015, with 62,510 fans packing the then-Orlando Citrus Bowl for the club’s MLS debut.
The 2024 season will mark the Club’s 10th as a member of MLS, with the team having reached the postseason in four-consecutive seasons (2020-23), qualified for the Concacaf Champions Cup (formerly Concacaf Champions League) in both 2023 and 2024, and reached its first final in 2020 during the MLS is Back Tournament. In 2022, Orlando City won its first championship of its MLS era, lifting the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup trophy, which also marked the first championship by any professional team in the City Beautiful. Prior to its time in MLS, Orlando City boasted a decorated history in the United Soccer League, winning the league’s championship in both the 2011 and 2013 seasons.
In October 2015, the Orlando Pride was announced as the 10th team in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), bringing professional women’s soccer to the state of Florida for the first time. The team began play in April 2016, setting a then-league single-game attendance record in its first-ever home game, with 23,403 fans witnessing the Club’s first win.
The Pride features a star-studded roster of domestic and international talent, captained by Brazilian legend Marta, a six-time Women’s World Player of the Year and the all-time leader in Women’s World Cup goals. Former Orlando City defender Seb Hines serves as the team’s head coach, the first Black head coach in league history.
In 2017, both teams moved into its privately-owned, soccer-specific venue – Inter&Co Stadium – located in the heart of downtown Orlando.
In July 2021, the Club – which includes Orlando City SC, the Orlando Pride, Orlando City B (MLS NEXT Pro) and Inter&Co Stadium – was purchased by the Wilf Family, who also own the Minnesota Vikings of the National Football League.
For more information on Orlando City SC and Orlando, visit OrlandoCitySC.com or Orlando-Pride.com.
About Inter&Co Stadium:
Opened in March 2017, Inter&Co Stadium is home to Orlando City of Major League Soccer (MLS) and Orlando Pride of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). The soccer-specific stadium is located in the heart of Downtown Orlando and was the first MLS stadium to open with five consecutive victories.
Inter&Co Stadium was 100 percent privately funded at a cost of $155 million. It features a 360-degree lower bowl, North America’s first safe-standing supporters’ section – dubbed “The Wall” – and a four-sided canopy roof to keep the noise in and weather out. In Section 12, there are 49 rainbow-colored seats to memorialize the victims of the tragedy at Pulse Night Club. The stadium also houses the Club’s Front Office.
Since its opening, the venue had already seen a number of guest experience upgrades, highlighted by the “Orlando Made” food and beverage program, featuring local favorites for fans to enjoy all that the City Beautiful has to offer under one roof.
To date, the stadium has hosted U.S. Men’s National Team’s 2018 & 2022 World Cup Qualifiers, the U.S. Women’s National Team in the 2018, 2020 & 2023 SheBelieves Cup, as well as the 2017 NWSL Championship, 2017 NCAA Women’s College Cup, 2018 & 2019 MLS Combines, multiple editions of the Florida Cup, the 2019 MLS All-Star Game, the 2019, 2021 & 2022 Cure Bowl, the Orlando Philharmonic and the 2022 Special Olympics USA Games Opening Ceremony.
For more information on Inter&Co Stadium, visit www.interco-stadium.com.
Sports
Marta Makes History as Orlando Pride Defeat Kansas City Current 3-0
Published
2 weeks agoon
July 11, 2026By
FNN SPORTSORLANDO, Fla. (FNN SPORTS) — The Orlando Pride extended their home dominance Friday night, defeating the Kansas City Current 3-0 at Inter&Co Stadium behind a historic performance from Marta, another goal from Barbra Banda, and a standout effort from goalkeeper Anna Moorhouse.
The victory improves Orlando to 6-6-2 (20 points), while Kansas City falls to 8-6-0 (24 points). The win marks the Pride’s fourth consecutive home victory and hands the Current its first loss in its last five visits to Orlando.
Scoreless First Half Sets Stage for Offensive Explosion
Both clubs created scoring opportunities during an evenly contested first half, but neither side was able to break through before halftime.
Orlando’s defense withstood constant pressure from Kansas City, setting the stage for a dominant second-half performance.
Marta Becomes First Pride Player to Reach 50 Goals
The Pride wasted little time after the break.
Just four minutes into the second half, Marta collected a pass from Jacquie Ovalle before curling a spectacular left-footed shot from outside the penalty area into the back of the net.
The goal gave Orlando a 1-0 lead and marked a historic milestone for the club.
Marta became the first player in Orlando Pride history to score 50 goals across all competitions.
Ovalle recorded her team-leading third assist of the season on the play.
Anderson Doubles Orlando’s Lead
The Pride struck again in the 57th minute.
Midfielder Ally Lemos delivered a perfectly placed corner kick that defender Hannah Anderson headed into the net for a 2-0 advantage.
The goal was Anderson’s second of the season, while Lemos earned her second assist of the 2026 campaign.
Barbra Banda Adds League-Leading 12th Goal
Substitute Barbra Banda put the match out of reach in the 85th minute.
After Kansas City’s goalkeeper misplayed a clearance outside the penalty area, Banda capitalized by calmly finishing into an open net.
The goal was Banda’s NWSL-leading 12th goal of the season and the first she has scored as a substitute in her professional career.
Moorhouse Records Milestone Appearance
Goalkeeper Anna Moorhouse anchored Orlando’s defense with a season-high nine saves, preserving the club’s fifth clean sheet of the season.
Friday’s match also marked Moorhouse’s 100th appearance across all competitions for the Pride, making her just the fifth player in club history to reach the milestone.
Orlando’s five shutouts rank third in the National Women’s Soccer League this season.
Seb Hines Praises Complete Team Performance
Head coach Seb Hines credited his team’s disciplined approach and collective effort.
“Really pleased with the result. I think it was quite even in the first half. We had some half-chances, and we tried to stop their key players from having a big influence on the game. I thought the players implemented the game plan very well.”
Hines continued:
“We had some really outstanding performances. It was a really big collective effort from everyone. It was nice to get some goals and a clean sheet at the end of it.”
Match Highlights
- 49′ — Orlando 1, Kansas City 0: Marta (assist: Jacquie Ovalle)
- 57′ — Orlando 2, Kansas City 0: Hannah Anderson (assist: Ally Lemos)
- 85′ — Orlando 3, Kansas City 0: Barbra Banda (unassisted)
Match Notes
- Marta scored her second goal of the 2026 season and 50th career goal for the Pride.
- Banda extended her league lead with 12 goals this season.
- Orlando earned its fifth clean sheet, tied for the third-most in the NWSL.
- Hannah Anderson scored her second career NWSL goal, both coming this season.
- Ally Lemos recorded her second assist of the year.
- Jacquie Ovalle collected her team-leading third assist.
- Zara Chavoshi made her first start of the 2026 season.
- Anna Moorhouse made her 100th appearance for Orlando.
- Orlando has now scored in seven consecutive home league matches.
- The Pride have scored five goals in the opening 15 minutes of the second half this season, the second-most in the NWSL.
By the Numbers
Final Score
- Orlando Pride 3
- Kansas City Current 0
Attendance: 8,058
Team Statistics
| Category | Orlando | Kansas City |
|---|---|---|
| Possession | 45% | 55% |
| Shots | 11 | 20 |
| Shots on Goal | 5 | 9 |
| Saves | 9 | 2 |
| Corners | 1 | 4 |
| Fouls | 5 | 3 |
Heineken Star of the Match: Marta
Up Next
The Pride remain at Inter&Co Stadium on Wednesday, July 15, when they host Boston Legacy FC. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET, with the match streaming on NWSL+.
Sports
Miami Heat Acquire Giannis Antetokounmpo, Bobby Portis Jr. in Blockbuster Trade with Bucks
Published
2 weeks agoon
July 6, 2026By
FNN SPORTSMIAMI (FNN SPORTS) — The Miami Heat have acquired Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bobby Portis Jr. from the Milwaukee Bucks in a blockbuster trade that reshapes the franchise’s championship aspirations.
In exchange, Miami sent Tyler Herro, Kasparas Jakučionis, Jaime Jaquez Jr., and Kel’el Ware to Milwaukee, along with first-round draft picks in 2026, 2031 and 2033, a 2030 first-round pick swap, and a 2033 second-round pick.
Pat Riley: ‘One of the Great Trades in HEAT History’
HEAT President Pat Riley called the acquisition one of the most significant moves in franchise history.
“The announcement of today’s trade for Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bobby Portis Jr. is one of the great trades in HEAT history,” Riley said. “In my opinion, Giannis is one of the top five players in the league, and Bobby is one of the best power forwards. The difficult part is trading Tyler, Kasparas, Jaime and Kel’el, who have given so much to this organization. We wish them nothing but the best. We also thank the Arison family for their continued commitment to pursuing another championship.”
Antetokounmpo Brings MVP Pedigree to Miami
Antetokounmpo arrives in Miami as one of the NBA’s most accomplished players.
His résumé includes:
- 2021 NBA Champion
- Two-time NBA Most Valuable Player (2019, 2020)
- 2021 NBA Finals MVP
- 2020 NBA Defensive Player of the Year
- 10-time NBA All-Star
- Seven All-NBA First Team selections
- Member of the NBA 75th Anniversary Team
Last season, Antetokounmpo averaged 27.6 points, 9.8 rebounds and 5.4 assists while shooting a career-best 62.4% from the field. He became the first player in NBA history to average at least 25 points while shooting better than 60% from the field in three consecutive seasons.
He also enters Miami as the Milwaukee Bucks’ all-time franchise leader in points, rebounds, assists, blocks, field goals, free throws, triple-doubles, minutes played and games played.
Antetokounmpo will wear No. 34 with the Heat.
Portis Adds Championship Experience
Portis, an NBA champion with Milwaukee, averaged 13.7 points, 6.4 rebounds and 1.6 assists in 67 games last season while shooting 48.8% from the field and 45.6% from three-point range.
The 11-year veteran has established himself as one of the league’s top reserve forwards, recording a Bucks franchise-record 61 double-doubles off the bench. He also received the NBA Cares Community Assist Award for his work in mentorship and community outreach.
Portis will wear No. 95 in Miami.
Heat Part Ways with Core Players
The trade ends the Miami careers of several key contributors.
Herro, selected 13th overall in the 2019 NBA Draft, spent seven seasons with the Heat, earning 2022 NBA Sixth Man of the Year honors and a 2024 NBA All-Star selection. He averaged 19.5 points, 5.0 rebounds and 4.1 assists in 394 regular-season games.
Jaquez Jr., a 2023 first-round pick, averaged 12.1 points, 4.4 rebounds and 3.3 assists over three seasons with Miami.
Jakučionis, selected in the first round of the 2025 NBA Draft, averaged 6.2 points during his rookie season.
Ware, the 15th overall selection in the 2024 NBA Draft, averaged 10.3 points, 8.3 rebounds and 1.1 blocks over two seasons.
Championship Expectations Rise
The acquisition of Antetokounmpo gives the Heat one of the NBA’s premier superstars and significantly strengthens Miami’s pursuit of another NBA championship. The addition of Portis further bolsters the team’s frontcourt with championship experience, scoring and rebounding.
Sports
Argentina Survives Cape Verde Scare, Wins 3-2 in Extra Time to Advance at FIFA World Cup 2026
Published
2 weeks agoon
July 6, 2026By
Willie DavidMIAMI (FNN SPORTS) — Argentina avoided what could have been one of the greatest upsets in World Cup history, surviving a major scare from Cabo Verde with a 3-2 extra-time victory Friday in the Round of 32.
Argentina Survives Despite Lackluster Performance
The defending World Cup champions delivered an uneven and uninspiring performance, appearing too comfortable after taking a 1-0 first-half lead on a goal by Lionel Messi.
But Argentina’s complacency proved costly as Cabo Verde, one of the tournament’s Cinderella stories, continued to press and eventually found an equalizer through Deroy Duarte.
Messi Goal Not Enough to Settle Match
Messi gave Argentina the early advantage, but the team failed to build on the lead or control the match with authority. Argentina’s attack lacked urgency for long stretches, allowing Cabo Verde to grow in confidence and push the match into extra time.
Extra-Time Drama
Argentina regained the lead in the 93rd minute when center back Lisandro Martínez scored to make it 2-1. Cabo Verde answered 11 minutes later with a stunning equalizer from Sidny Cabral, who curled a spectacular shot past Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez from the corner of the box.
The dramatic strike may stand as one of the best goals of the tournament.
Argentina Advances to Face Egypt
Argentina finally escaped when Cristian Romero headed a corner kick that glanced off a Cabo Verde player and into the net, giving Argentina the narrow win.
With the victory, Argentina advances to face Egypt on Tuesday in Atlanta.