Houston Dynamo FC Begins 20th MLS Season with Exciting New Partnerships

HOUSTON (Feb. 21, 2025) – Houston Dynamo FC is poised to kick off its 20th Major League Soccer season on Saturday, Feb. 22, facing in-state rivals FC Dallas in a much-anticipated home opener at Shell Energy Stadium. The match, which is the 55th Texas Derby, promises excitement as fans celebrate two decades of Dynamo soccer.

The Dynamo’s home opener, powered by Shell Energy, will feature a gate giveaway of Dynamo-branded wall flags for attendees as part of a year-long celebration marking this milestone season. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. CT, and fans can tune in via MLS Season Pass on Apple TV.

Adding to the excitement, the Dynamo recently announced a multi-year partnership with KIA America, where fans can enjoy exclusive offers on award-winning KIA models. Ben Carruthers, HDFC Vice President of Corporate Partnerships, said, “The Club is thrilled to welcome KIA America as we embark on a new season with so much momentum across the organization. We look forward to working with KIA to bring our fans closer to their favorite players through innovative activations and digital series throughout the season.”

This partnership includes a new digital series that will offer fans a behind-the-scenes look at the Dynamo players. The first episode will air soon and will highlight the team as they gear up for the opening match. KIA America has also emphasized its commitment to engaging with the local community through various initiatives at Shell Energy Stadium.

Fans will be able to view the latest KIA models at the stadium, starting March 15 when the Dynamo hosts Real Salt Lake. Amber Parham, Regional Marketing Manager for KIA America, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration: “We are excited to begin this partnership with the Dynamo and Dash, and for the chance to engage with the local community in a new way.”

In preparation for the season, the Dynamo made a significant trade with Toronto FC, exchanging a 2025 International Roster Slot for $200,000 in 2025 General Allocation Money and an additional $100,000 in 2026 GAM. The transaction reflects the Dynamo’s strategic planning as they ready for the upcoming challenges.

Meanwhile, the Dynamo confirmed the transfer of defender Micael dos Santos Silva to SE Palmeiras in Brazil’s Série A, a move that President of Soccer Pat Onstad described as a recognition of Micael’s growth over two and a half years in Houston. “We made a commitment to Micael that we would support him in his ambitions to play for one of the top clubs in the world, and we wish him well in this next step,” Onstad stated.

Micael joined the Dynamo in April 2022 and has since established himself as one of the top defenders in MLS, contributing significantly to the team’s success, including a championship run in the 2023 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. His departure comes as the Dynamo prepare for a season of high expectations and new endeavors.

Looking ahead, fans can also mark their calendars for March 2, when Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami CF visits Shell Energy Stadium, a match set to begin at 6:00 p.m. CT. With a roster of events lined up, the 2025 season promises to be an exciting chapter for Houston Dynamo FC.