Commerce City, Colo. — The Colorado Rapids have officially signed Homegrown forward Darren Yapi to a multi-year contract as part of the U22 Initiative, which will keep him with the club through the 2028-29 MLS season, with an option for 2029-30.

Club's Confidence in Yapi

Rapids President Pádraig Smith expressed pride in Yapi's development, stating, “Darren truly embodies the pathway we believe in as a club, and we’re incredibly proud of the way he has progressed through our system.” Smith highlighted Yapi's consistent impact at the MLS level and his potential to become a top attacker, noting that the new contract reflects both his performances and the standards he has set for himself.

Yapi's Impressive Track Record

At just 21 years old, Yapi has made 116 appearances in all competitions since his debut on March 12, 2022. He made history as the youngest player to sign a professional contract with the Rapids at 16 years and 104 days in 2021. Yapi also became the youngest player to score a brace for the club at 20 years and 264 days during a match against Minnesota United FC on August 10, 2025. He currently holds the second-highest goal tally (13) among Rapids Homegrown players in the club's history.

Yapi had a standout season in 2025, achieving career highs in several categories, including goals (8), assists (4), and minutes played (1,433). He has continued this momentum into the 2026 season, contributing three goals and two assists in 11 appearances thus far.

Coaching Staff's Support

Rapids Head Coach Matt Wells praised Yapi's positive start to the season, noting his growth as a complete front line player. “He’s shown a top mentality to embrace our football,” Wells remarked, emphasizing Yapi's physical development and consistent impact in attacking positions. The coach expressed excitement about Yapi's ambition and future growth within the team.

Yapi's journey began in the Rapids Academy, where he joined at the U-12 level during the 2016-17 season, scoring 64 goals in 95 appearances. He also gained valuable experience with the Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC in 2020 and 2021, making his professional debut at just 15 years old and scoring two goals in 16 appearances. Additionally, he played for Rapids 2 from 2022 to 2025, netting 11 goals and providing three assists in 35 appearances across all competitions.

With this new contract, the Colorado Rapids are clearly committed to Yapi's development, and fans can look forward to watching his continued growth in the coming seasons.