Facundo Torres Joins Austin FC: A Game-Changer for the 2026 Season
Austin FC has made a significant signing by acquiring winger Facundo Torres from Palmeiras in Brazil. The 25-year-old Uruguay international has signed a contract with Austin FC through the 2029-30 season, with an option for 2030-31, for a reported $9.5 million transfer fee. Torres, a former Orlando City standout, will join fellow attackers Brandon Vazquez and Myrto Uzuni as a Designated Player on the roster. As a U.S. Green Card holder, he will not take up an international roster spot. Sporting director Rodolfo Borrell praised Torres' attacking quality and expects him to make an immediate impact for the team.
During his time at Palmeiras, Torres scored 10 goals and provided 6 assists in 61 appearances. Prior to his move to Brazil, he had a successful stint at Orlando City, where he scored 47 goals and had 25 assists in 123 matches across all competitions, becoming the club's all-time leading scorer. Torres also played a key role in Orlando City's 2022 US Open Cup triumph and their run to the 2024 Eastern Conference Final in the Audi MLS Cup Playoffs. A product of Peñarol in Uruguay, Torres has represented his country with two goals in 22 caps and was part of Uruguay's 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign.
Expressing his excitement about joining Austin FC, Torres highlighted the club's ambition and the strong soccer community as key factors in his decision. Austin FC's 2026 season kicks off on Feb. 21 with a home match against Minnesota United FC. The team is looking to build on their previous performances and make a strong push in the upcoming season.