SOCCER: Whitecaps extend Defender Tristan Blackmon, Midfielder Andres Cubas

The Vancouver Whitecaps have secured key players for the future by signing defender Tristan Blackmon and midfielder Andres Cubas to contract extensions.

Blackmon, who was named the 2025 MLS Defender of the Year, is now under contract through the 2029-30 season. Cubas, who will no longer occupy a designated player spot on the roster, is signed through 2027-28.

The 29-year-old Blackmon also earned All-Star and Best XI honors last season as Vancouver reached the MLS Cup and Concacaf Champions Cup finals. In his MLS career, he has totaled seven goals and seven assists in 173 matches, including his time with Los Angeles FC (2018–2021) and the Whitecaps.

"Since the day he arrived, Tristan has consistently pushed himself and grown into one of the league's top defenders," said sporting director Axel Schuster. "He has delivered countless memorable moments for our club, and we are excited to extend his contract and continue building together here in Vancouver."

Cubas, also 29, has contributed one goal and three assists in 97 MLS games since joining Vancouver in 2022.

"Andres embodies everything we value in our group," Schuster added. "He is driven, relentless in his work ethic, and a true leader in our locker room, setting the standard for our younger players. On the pitch, he has been integral to our success and ranks among the very best in the league at his position."

Internationally, Cubas has 32 caps with Paraguay, while Blackmon has made two appearances for the U.S. Men’s National Team. -Field Level Media/Reuters