VANCOUVER, BC – Vancouver Whitecaps FC further solidified their midfield core on Tuesday, signing seven-year MLS veteran Felipe to a contract extension.

The 28-year old Brazilian agreed to a new contract through 2020 with an option for 2021, following a 2018 campaign that saw him lead the ‘Caps in touches, chances created, total successful passes, and successful passes ending in the final third.

“Felipe is a player who suits what we want to do,” said Whitecaps FC head coach Marc Dos Santos. “He has the characteristics and qualities that we look for in his position. We’re looking forward to getting the best out of Felipe.”

Since his arrival in MLS in 2012, Felipe leads the league with 210 regular season games started. In that span, Felipe also ranks in the top five league-wide in touches and passes into the final third, and among the top 10 in total successful passes, and successful passes ending in the final third.

“For me this means a lot, because this club wants me to stay,” added Felipe. “Canada has always made my family feel at home, my son was born here, and we hope to be in Vancouver for a long time. I want to help the club make history and do something special. I’m here to win.”

In his first year with Whitecaps FC, Felipe recorded one goal and seven assists in 25 starts and 30 appearances across all competitions, after spending his first six MLS seasons with Montreal Impact and New York Red Bulls.

Felipe was one of two key players signed to a contract extension on Tuesday, joining attacking midfielder/forward Yordy Reyna.

Whitecaps FC open their season on March 2 versus Minnesota United FC at BC Place. Visit whitecapsfc.com/tickets for ticket information.

TRANSACTION: Vancouver Whitecaps FC sign midfielder Felipe to a new contract through 2020 with option for 2021.