Sports

Orlando City SC and Facundo Torres Agree to New Contract

Published

1 year ago

January 11, 2024

ORLANDO, Fla. – Orlando City SC has signed forward Facundo Torres to a new three-year contract, it was announced today. The Uruguayan forward will stay with the Lions as a Designated Player on a guaranteed contract through 2026, with Club options in 2027 and 2028.

“Facu has proven himself to be such an important part of our team these last couple of years,” said Orlando City EVP of Soccer Operations and General Manager Luiz Muzzi. “He’s fulfilled our expectations that we set out for him at the start, showing great potential for even further growth. We’re really pleased to have him signed with us for even longer, as we strive for bigger objectives.”

The 23-year-old winger has made 72 starts in 79 appearances for the Lions since arriving in the City Beautiful, scoring 27 goals and providing 16 assists in two full seasons. 10 of Torres’ goals in the MLS regular season have served as game-winning goals, leading City in that category in both 2022 and 2023.

“First, I want to thank the Club and the fans for the amazing support they provide and for always having confidence in me,” Torres said. “I’m very happy to stay here in Orlando and continue this journey together. Vamos Orlando!”

A product of Peñarol’s youth academy system, Torres joined Los Carboneros’ first team at the start of 2020. Since then, Torres has made 71 appearances across all competitions with the Uruguayan club, including appearances in the Copa Libertadores and Copa Sudamericana, scored 16 goals and added 15 assists in those matches. He also played a major role in leading Peñarol to the 2021 Liga Profesional de Primera División title, scoring in the championship match.

On June 4, 2021, the Montevideo, Uruguay, native made his senior international debut for his home country in a 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifying match against Paraguay. Torres entered the match as a second-half substitute for his first senior minutes at the international level. He was most recently named to Uruguay’s final roster for its most recent round of FIFA World Cup Qualifying matches against Argentina (Nov. 16) and Bolivia (Nov. 21).

Torres has since made a total of 15 appearances, including five matches in Copa América 2021 and provided his first assist for Uruguay in the same competition, as well as being named to La Celeste’s final roster for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. The Las Piedras, Uruguay native scored his first goal for his national team earlier in 2023, scoring in an international friendly against Cuba on June 21. Before featuring for the senior national team, he played 34 games combined for Uruguay’s U17 and U20 sides, scoring a total of 15 goals for the nation’s youth teams.

For the 2024 season, Torres will switch his jersey number from No. 17 to No. 10, joining players such as former captains Kaká and Mauricio Pereyra in wearing the No. 10 shirt for the Lions.

TRANSACTION: Orlando City SC signs forward and Designated Player Facundo Torres to a new contract through 2026, with Club options in 2027 and 2028.

Related Topics:Facundo Torres Orlando City SC

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Sports

Miami Open Presented by Itaú to Feature Elite Tennis, Culinary Delights, and Cultural Celebrations

Published

3 days ago

March 12, 2025

Willie David

MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. (FNN SPORTS) – The 2025 Miami Open presented by Itaú is set to deliver an unforgettable blend of elite tennis, culinary delights, and cultural celebrations at Hard Rock Stadium from March 16-30. Tennis fans worldwide will gather in Miami Gardens to witness top-ranked players compete in an atmosphere brimming with excitement and entertainment.

Star-Studded Tennis Lineup

This year’s entry list boasts 21 title-winning players from the season, featuring 15 Grand Slam champions and 32 players who have collectively claimed 125 ATP and WTA 1000-level titles. Spectators can expect intense competition from tennis icons like Novak Djokovic, Iga Świątek, Carlos Alcaraz, Naomi Osaka, and rising star João Fonseca.

Culinary Delights and Signature Drinks

The Miami Open is more than just tennis—it’s a culinary playground. New dining experiences include Zuma, the globally acclaimed Japanese hotspot, along with fresh entries like Fabel Miami and Miami Slice. Fan favorites Bodega Taqueria y Tequila and Kiki on the River return with signature Mexican and Greek flavors.

For drinks, fans can savor the tournament’s signature Ace Paloma by Dobel or indulge in a Brugal Cafecito Martini at La Casa Brugal. The Stella Artois Racquet Club offers a variety of refreshing beers for guests to enjoy.

Theme Days and Special Events

The Miami Open will host fan-focused theme days, celebrating various cultures and causes, including:

March 16 – Opening Day presented by bakerly: A free fan event featuring live music, family entertainment, and a fashion show with Miami Open x Lacoste’s latest styles.
March 19 – Brazilian Heritage Day presented by Itaú: Enjoy vibrant performances and authentic Brazilian cocktails.
March 20 – Hispanic Heritage Day presented by PNC Bank: Delight in Hispanic cuisine, music, and themed cocktails.
March 24 – Women’s Empowerment Day presented by Gillette Venus: Featuring a panel with Martina Navratilova, Morgan Riddle, and Jenny Nguyen.
March 25 – Out at the Open: A day of pride celebrations with giveaways and performances.
March 27 – College Night presented by DoorDash: Featuring student DJs, mascots, and the exclusive DashPass Lounge.
March 29 – Kids Day: Fun-filled activities for families, including face painting, live shows, and giveaways.

Exciting Additions for 2025

The 2025 Miami Open introduces the Publix Padel Cup, showcasing the growing global sport of padel with matches running from March 27-30. The Ultra Park by Padel Lux will feature luxurious padel courts for fans to enjoy throughout the event.

‘Miami Open presented by Itau’.

Returning for another year is the inspiring Miami Open Wheelchair Invitational from March 26-28, with former champion Dana Mathewson serving as Assistant Tournament Director.

Fashion, Experiences, and More

The tournament’s fashion scene shines with the Miami Open Shop, presenting a revamped merchandise collection featuring exclusive apparel by Lacoste. Fans can get a preview of the latest styles during the Miami Open x Lacoste Fashion Show on March 16 at 3 p.m.

Gondola during the Miami Open tennis tournament, Sunday, Mar. 24, 2024, in Miami Gardens, Fla. (Jose Pineiro/South Florida Stadium)

For breathtaking views, guests can board the Piper-Heidsieck Champagne Skyview Gondola, offering a scenic ride over Hard Rock Stadium’s grounds and Miami’s skyline.

Ticket Information

Fans can choose from Single Session Tickets with reserved seats on the stadium court or an affordable Ground Pass to enjoy outer court matches and the lively event atmosphere.

For the full schedule, sponsor details, and ticket information, visit www.miamiopen.com.

________________________________________________________________________________

J Willie David, III
Florida National News and FNN News Network
News@FloridaNationalNews.com

Golf

Russell Henley Wins Red Cardigan at 2025 Arnold Palmer Invitational

Published

6 days ago

March 9, 2025

Mike Brodsky

Russell Henley wins the 2025 Arnold Palmer Invitational (Photo credit: Mike Brodsky, Florida National News)

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN Sports) – Russell Henley wins his first red cardigan at the Arnold Palmer Invitational, today, along with $4 million of the $20 million prize pool. The red cardigan was first awarded in 2017, in memory of Arnold Palmer who passed the year before. This is Henley’s fifth win on the PGA Tour.

Russell Henley is greeted by his family on the 18th green after winning the Arnold Palmer Invitational (Photo credit: Mike Brodsky, Florida National News)

Henley finished at 11 under par for the four day tournament, carding a 70 today. Collin Morikawa finished in second place at 10 under par. API defending champion, Scottie Scheffler, finished today at 4 under par, tied for 11th place.

Scottie Scheffler tees off at the Arnold Palmer Invitational (Photo Credit: Mike Brodsky, Florida National News)

This coming week, the top golfers head to TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra, for The Players Championship. The winner will walk away with $4.5 million of the $25 million up for grabs. This is the PGA Tour’s largest regular season purse. Stay tuned to www.FloridaNationalNews.com for more.

Sports

Orlando Pride Drops 2025 NWSL Challenge Cup Final to Washington Spirit in 4-2 Penalty Shootout

Published

1 week ago

March 8, 2025

Willie David

Orlando Pride Drops 2025 NWSL Challenge Cup Final to Washington Spirit in 4-2 Penalty Shootout

Credit: Orlando Pride

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN SPORTS) – The Orlando Pride suffered a heartbreaking defeat in the 2025 NWSL Challenge Cup Final, falling to Washington Spirit in a penalty shootout at Inter&Co Stadium on Friday night. After a hard-fought 1-1 draw in regulation, the match was decided in an end-of-regulation shootout, where the Spirit edged out the Pride 4-2.

Credit: Orlando Pride

Rafaelle Marks Return with a Goal

Brazilian defender Rafaelle made a triumphant return to the lineup after being removed from the Season-Ending Injury List earlier in the week. She made an immediate impact, scoring in the 41st minute to give the Pride the lead. The goal, her first of the 2025 season, was also her first since August 20, 2023, when she debuted for Orlando.

The Washington Spirit responded in the 72nd minute with a free-kick goal from Leicy Santos, who expertly placed the ball into the top-right corner past Pride goalkeeper Anna Moorhouse, forcing the match into a penalty shootout.

Penalty Shootout Recap

In the high-stakes shootout, Orlando’s Julie Doyle and Angelina converted their penalties, but Summer Yates missed, and Ally Lemos’ shot was saved. Washington was clinical, with Ashley Hatch, Rebeca Bernal, Narumi Miura, and Tara McKeown all converting to secure the 2025 NWSL Challenge Cup title.

Head Coach Seb Hines Reacts

Following the tough loss, Orlando Pride head coach Seb Hines reflected on the team’s performance:

“Football is a cruel game, and losing in penalties is never easy. I thought we did really well throughout the game. Our pressing looked sharp, and we had some good opportunities. This being our first game of the year and a Final, of course, we wanted to win. Losing a Final and not lifting the trophy is hard, but this will fuel our hunger to continue building on our success from last year.”

– Other Sports News

Match Notes

Rafaelle scored her first goal since her 2023 debut for the Pride.
Prisca Chilufya made her Pride debut as a second-half substitute.
The Pride fielded nine of the same starters from the 2024 NWSL Championship match, also against Washington.

Match Stats

Possession: Orlando (52.2%) | Washington (47.8%)
Shots: Orlando (13) | Washington (9)
Saves: Orlando (2) | Washington (3)
Fouls: Orlando (12) | Washington (18)

What’s Next?

The Orlando Pride now turn their focus to the 2025 NWSL regular season, kicking off next Friday, March 14, against Chicago Stars FC at Inter&Co Stadium. Before the match, the club will hold a special banner-raising ceremony to commemorate their 2024 NWSL Shield and 2024 NWSL Championship titles. Kickoff is set for 8:00 p.m. ET on Prime Video.