Haitian soccer star Fafà Picault joins Inter Miami CF, looks ahead to historic 2025 season

MIAMI — Fabrice Jean-Lan Picault, widely recognized in soccer circles as Fafà Picault, has officially joined Inter Miami CF after departing from the Vancouver Whitecaps as a free agent. Team officials announced the signing of the Haitian international on Tuesday, Dec. 31, which will run through the 2025 Major League Soccer (MLS) season, with a club option for 2026. No further details about the contract have been provided.

Picault voiced his excitement on joining Inter Miami in his first remarks as a player for the team.

“I am deeply honored to join an ambitious club like Inter Miami CF,” Picault said.

 “Representing this badge and playing for the incredible fan base this organization has built locally, nationally, and internationally is a dream come true.”

Inter Miami CF, one of the MLS’s top teams, called Picault’s signing a game-changer for their star-packed roster heading into a high-stakes 2025 season. The 33-year-old winger, born to Haitian parents in New York City, brings considerable experience and talent to the team, along with a strong connection to the South Florida community where he grew up from ages 9 to 16.Picault noted he could not wait to meet his teammates and work together toward a historic 2025 campaign, notably playing in the MLS regular season and Cup, the FIFA Club World Cup, the CONCACAF Champions League, and the Leagues Cup.

“Returning to South Florida—a place I proudly call home—gives me the chance to be closer to my family and childhood friends while bringing excitement to this passionate football community. This opportunity is truly special, and I’m eager to make history with this team,” Picault added.

A proven talent with international experience

Inter Miami CF’s president of operations, Raúl Sanllehí, shared his excitement about the team’s newest acquisition. He emphasized that Picault’s experience and leadership will play a pivotal role in strengthening the team’s push to establish itself as a dominant force in MLS.

“We’re excited to welcome Fafa to Inter Miami CF. We believe that his pace, skill, and proven MLS track record can bring valuable quality and experience to our front lines,” Sanllehí said.

“We’re looking forward to having him with us to enhance our attacking options as we aim for success across multiple competitions in 2025.”

Nicknamed “the Gazelle” for his bursting speed on either flank of the field and also known for his versatility and scoring ability, Picault has built an impressive career in professional soccer. He began his professional journey in Europe, playing in Italy and the Czech Republic before returning to the United States to compete in the NASL with the Tampa Bay Rowdies and Fort Lauderdale Strikers between 2012 and 2014. 

He then had his stints abroad, playing for Czech First Division side Sparta Prague in 2015 and FC St. Pauli in Germany’s Bundesliga from 2015 to 2017.

Picault has dominated the MLS since 2017, racking up an impressive 57 goals and 30 assists over eight seasons. He plied his trade first with the Philadelphia Union (2017-2019). He played for FC Dallas (2020), Houston Dynamo FC (2021-2022), and Nashville SC (2023). 

Before joining David Beckham’s Inter Miami CF, the 33-year-old came off a stellar 2024 season with Vancouver Whitecaps, contributing 10 goals and eight assists across all competitions, helping the team secure the Canadian Championship and an MLS Cup Playoffs spot. 

On the international stage, Picault has also represented the U.S. Men’s National Team, earning several caps and showcasing his talent on a global level between 2016 and 2018. However, Picault has never forgotten his Haitian roots, often expressing pride in his heritage and representing the Haitian community through his success on and off the field.

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